Chunky Nut Banana Bread is like a warm hug on a chilly morning. With the perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness, this moist and flavorful quick bread is a delightful treat that will have you coming back for more. It's perfect for using up those ripe bananas sitting on your counter and adding a bit of comfort to your day.
Bananas are the star here, providing natural sweetness and moisture. Aim for ripe ones with plenty of brown spots for the best flavor. Butter adds richness and helps keep the bread tender. Sugar sweetens the deal, while a single egg gives structure and helps everything bind together. A splash of vanilla extract enhances the flavors. Baking soda is our leavening agent, ensuring a nice rise, and a pinch of salt balances out the sweetness. All-purpose flour creates the bread's structure, and a hint of cinnamon adds warmth and depth. Finally, walnuts and pecans bring a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
This Chunky Nut Banana Bread is a delight on its own, but you can take it up a notch by serving it with a smear of cream cheese or a pat of butter. For a cozy brunch, pair it with a side of fresh fruit and a cup of herbal tea. It also makes a great afternoon snack with a dollop of yogurt on the side.
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9x5 inch loaf pan and give it a good greasing to ensure easy release later. Now, let's tackle those bananas. In a large bowl, mash them up until smooth. You want a nice, even consistency here—no big chunks. Next, stir in your melted butter, blending until it's well incorporated.
Once your butter and banana mixture is ready, mix in the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined. Continue by sprinkling in your baking soda and salt, stirring thoroughly. Now it's time to add the flour and cinnamon. Gently fold these in until just incorporated. Remember, over-mixing can lead to dense bread, and we want it light and fluffy!
Time to bring in the crunch. Gently fold in those chopped walnuts and pecans, ensuring they're evenly distributed throughout the batter. Pour this glorious mixture into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. You'll know it's done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This little rest helps the bread firm up, making it easier to handle.
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