Banana Bread with Pecans Recipe

Name: Banana Bread with Pecans Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 3/4 cup sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Highlighted under: Oven Meals

I absolutely love making banana bread, and this Banana Bread with Pecans recipe is a true favorite in my kitchen. The combination of ripe bananas and crunchy pecans creates a delightful texture and flavor that is hard to resist. I often find myself making this when I have overripe bananas sitting on my counter, and it always turns out perfectly moist and flavorful. Whether enjoyed warm with butter or as a quick snack, this banana bread is simply irresistible.

Created by

Honor Blackwell

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:09:34.710Z

When I started experimenting with banana bread, I didn’t expect this combination of pecans to elevate it so much. The process allows for simple improvisation, especially if you have extra nuts or different types of bananas. I usually mash the bananas until smooth, which ensures every bite is packed with flavor, and trust me, the crunch of pecans surprises everyone!

To get the perfect loaf, I've learned it's essential not to overmix the batter. A few gentle folds are all it needs to incorporate the ingredients. Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon enhances the taste, creating a wonderfully warm aroma while it bakes that fills the entire home. This is definitely a family tradition in the making!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and flavorful banana bread with a nutty crunch
Simple ingredients you probably already have on hand
Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack
Versatile; add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips

      

Mastering the Right Banana Ripeness

Choosing the right bananas is crucial for this banana bread. Look for bananas that are overripe, with plenty of brown spots. The sugars in the bananas caramelize, providing the bread with natural sweetness and moisture. If you find yourself with green bananas, you can place them in a paper bag with an apple or another ripe banana to speed up the ripening process. Typically, this takes about 1 to 2 days, depending on the initial ripeness of the bananas.

For best results, aim for a total of 1 to 1 1/2 cups of mashed bananas, which usually equates to about 3 medium-sized overripe bananas. Using less banana may result in a drier crumb, while too much can make the bread overly dense. If you're short on ripe bananas, you can supplement with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce for added moisture.

The Role of Pecans and Flavor Variations

Pecans not only add a delightful crunch but also enhance the nutty undertones of the banana bread. Make sure to chop them evenly to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the batter. You can lightly toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes. This small step will intensify their flavor and provide a richer taste in the finished bread.

While this recipe highlights pecans, feel free to customize the mix-ins to your liking. Chocolate chips make a delightful addition, while dried fruits like cranberries or even shredded coconut can offer a tropical twist. When adding extra items, keep in mind to maintain the balance of dry and wet ingredients to preserve the bread's texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients for Banana Bread

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
3/4 cup sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup chopped pecans

Make sure to mix your dry ingredients separately for better distribution!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious banana bread:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, blend the melted butter and mashed bananas. Stir in the baking soda and salt, then mix in the sugar, egg, and vanilla.

Combine Flour and Pecans

Finally, add the flour and pecans into the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy!

Enjoy your freshly baked banana bread with a cup of tea or coffee!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding chocolate chips or swapping half of the flour for whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

Storage and Freezing

To keep your banana bread fresher longer, store it at room temperature in an airtight container. It will last for about 3 to 4 days before starting to dry out. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing the bread. Allow the loaf to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen banana bread, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature. Alternatively, you can reheat slices directly in the microwave or toaster oven. If you prefer a warm, freshly baked texture, wrap it in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your banana bread turns out too dense or wet, it may be due to excessive moisture from the bananas. Make sure to measure your mashed banana accurately and avoid packing it tightly in the measuring cup. On the flip side, if the bread is dry, you may have overbaked it. Keep an eye on the bread during the last 10 minutes; testing it with a toothpick is essential for finding that perfect baking time.

Another common issue can be uneven baking. Ensure you mix the batter just until combined; overmixing can lead to a tough texture. If you're baking at a higher altitude, you may need to adjust the liquid content slightly, so consider adding a bit more melted butter or banana puree to counteract the drier air conditions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How should I store the banana bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze banana bread?

Absolutely! Slice it first and freeze the pieces in a freezer-safe bag for easy reheating later.

→ How do I know when it's done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with only a few crumbs attached.