Introduction:
Banana bread is a beloved classic, and when you add walnuts and raisins, it takes it to the next level.
The sweetness of ripe bananas, the crunch of walnuts, and the chewy texture of raisins come together perfectly to create a moist, flavorful loaf. This recipe is simple, yet incredibly delicious, perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a light dessert.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this banana bread is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup melted butter
1 cup sugar (you can reduce this to 3/4 cup for a less sweet version)
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/2 cup raisins
Instructions:
Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Prepare the banana mixture: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Stir in the melted butter.
Mix in wet ingredients: Add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the banana mixture. Stir well until all ingredients are fully combined.
Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture. Mix just until combined—do not overmix.
Add the walnuts and raisins: Gently stir in the chopped walnuts and raisins.
Bake the bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Description:
This Best Banana Bread with Walnuts and Raisins is a soft, moist, and flavorful loaf that is perfect for any time of the day. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas is complemented by the nutty crunch of walnuts and the plump juiciness of raisins, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s easy to make, requiring only simple ingredients, and can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored for a few days. Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or even a homemade gift.
Tips:
Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. If your bananas aren’t ripe enough, you can place them in a brown paper bag for a day or two to speed up the ripening process.
Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in a dense bread. Mix the dry and wet ingredients until just combined.
Toast the walnuts (optional): For extra flavor, lightly toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat before adding them to the batter.
Substitute the raisins: If you prefer, you can swap out the raisins for chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or even chopped dates for a different flavor profile.
Check for doneness: Since ovens vary, start checking the banana bread at the 55-minute mark by inserting a toothpick. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready.
Variations:
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a sweeter, more indulgent twist.
Coconut Banana Bread: Add 1/4 cup shredded coconut for a tropical flavor.
Vegan Banana Bread: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs and the butter with coconut oil or vegetable oil.
Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with cinnamon for extra warmth in flavor.
Add more fruit: Try adding some diced apples or blueberries for an additional fruity twist.
Correction:
If you find that your banana bread is too dry, consider adding an extra mashed banana or a tablespoon of yogurt to the batter. Additionally, if the top is browning too quickly, cover the loaf with foil and continue baking until fully cooked.
Enjoy:
Once the banana bread has cooled, slice it up and enjoy! It’s perfect with a cup of tea or coffee, or simply as a satisfying snack on its own. The combination of walnuts and raisins elevates this bread, making it a wholesome treat for all to enjoy.