Pecan Banana Bread

Pecan Banana Bread is a delicious twist on the classic banana bread, combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich, buttery crunch of pecans. This quick bread is soft, moist, and filled with warm, cozy flavors that make it perfect for any time of day. The bananas keep the loaf tender, while toasted pecans add texture and a slightly caramelized nutty flavor that elevates every bite. Whether you’re baking to use up overripe bananas or simply craving something homemade and comforting, pecan banana bread is a timeless favorite that never disappoints.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple yet special. The bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, and the pecans add a wonderful crunch and depth of flavor. It’s easy to make, smells incredible while baking, and always turns out beautifully soft and flavorful. Plus, it feels just a little more indulgent than plain banana bread.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Perfect balance of soft banana bread and crunchy pecans
• Uses simple pantry ingredients
• Great way to use overripe bananas
• Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert
• Freezes well for later enjoyment

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 55–65 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour 20 minutes
• Servings: 10 slices
• Calories: ~270 calories per slice (approx.)
• Course: Breakfast / Snack / Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (or vegetable oil)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¾ cup chopped pecans (toasted, if desired)

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F. Grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk melted butter with granulated and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Add eggs, vanilla extract, and mashed bananas; mix until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
5. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined.
6. Gently fold in chopped pecans.
7. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
9. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Mash Bananas: Mash ripe bananas until mostly smooth.
2. Prepare Wet Base: Mix butter and sugars, then add eggs, vanilla, and bananas.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour, leavening agents, salt, and cinnamon.
4. Mix Batter: Gently combine dry ingredients with wet mixture.
5. Add Pecans: Fold in pecans evenly.
6. Bake: Transfer batter to loaf pan and bake until golden.
7. Cool: Allow loaf to cool before slicing for best texture.

How to Serve

Serve pecan banana bread warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own, lightly buttered, or paired with honey or cream cheese. Enjoy it with coffee, tea, or milk for a comforting treat.

Recipe Tips

• Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor
• Toast pecans briefly to enhance their nutty taste
• Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender
• Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly

Variations (Detailed)

• Chocolate Pecan Banana Bread: Add chocolate chips along with pecans
• Healthy Version: Use whole wheat flour and reduce sugar
• Maple Pecan Banana Bread: Replace part of sugar with maple syrup
• Spiced Banana Bread: Add nutmeg or allspice for warmth
• Vegan Version: Use flax eggs and plant-based butter

Freezing and Storage

• Room Temperature: Store wrapped tightly for up to 2 days
• Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 1 week
• Freezer: Freeze whole loaf or slices for up to 3 months
• Reheating: Thaw at room temperature or warm slices gently

Special Equipment Needed

• Loaf pan (9×5 inch)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk and spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire cooling rack

Conclusion

Pecan Banana Bread is a warm, comforting classic with a delightful nutty upgrade. Moist, flavorful, and easy to make, it’s the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with irresistible aroma and your table with smiles. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or saved for later, this bread is a wonderful reminder that simple ingredients can create something truly special—one delicious slice at a time.