Banana Walnut Delight Bread is a simple yet indulgent treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the satisfying crunch of walnuts. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, this bread is an excellent way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter.
Butter provides richness and helps keep the bread moist. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the bread. Sugar sweetens the bread, balancing the natural sugars in the bananas. Eggs add structure and help bind the ingredients together. The star of the show, bananas, provide moisture and a natural sweetness that intensifies as they ripen. Vanilla extract enhances flavor, adding warmth and depth. Whole milk adds moisture and richness. All-purpose flour forms the base of the bread, providing structure. Baking soda is the leavening agent that helps the bread rise. A little salt enhances all the flavors. Finally, walnuts add texture and a nutty flavor that complements the bananas perfectly.
Enjoy a slice of this bread warm, topped with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. It pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. For a more decadent treat, try spreading a bit of cream cheese on top.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives the oven enough time to reach the right temperature while you prepare the batter. Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with a bit of butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy removal after baking.
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar. Use a whisk or a wooden spoon to mix them together until you have a smooth, creamy mixture. Next, crack in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Once your eggs are well mixed, fold in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract. The bananas should be mashed to a lumpy puree to ensure you get that comforting banana flavor in every bite. Stir in the milk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, folding gently to combine. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the bread tough.
Finally, fold in the chopped walnuts. Make sure they're evenly distributed throughout the batter. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth out the top.
Bake in your preheated oven for 60-70 minutes. You'll know it's done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.