Home Cuisine Best Banana Bread with Walnuts and Raisins

Best Banana Bread with Walnuts and Raisins

For illustrative purpose only

Banana bread is the ultimate comfort food, beloved for its moist texture and rich banana flavor. This classic recipe takes it up a notch by incorporating toasted walnuts and sweet raisins, adding a delightful crunch and burst of flavor. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert, this banana bread is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a novice baker or an expert, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through your home!

Preparation Time:

  • Preparation: 15 minutes
  • Baking: 60-70 minutes
  • Total: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 25 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed with a fork
  • ½ cup butter (1 stick) at room temperature
  • 3/4 cup white sugar (or use 1 scant cup of honey)
  • 2 eggs, room temperature
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp real vanilla extract
  • 1 cup walnuts, toasted and coarsely chopped
  • ½ cup raisins

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.

2. Prepare the Bananas:

  • In a bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Set aside.

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:

  • In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar (or honey) together until light and fluffy.
  • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  • Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until well combined.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients:

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

5. Mix Together:

  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  • Fold in the toasted walnuts and raisins.

6. Bake:

  • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool:

  • Remove from the oven and let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
  • Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
For illustrative purpose only

Serving Suggestions:

  • Enjoy warm with a pat of butter.
  • Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt for breakfast.
  • Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon snack.

Cooking Tips:

  • Use ripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness.
  • To toast walnuts, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Ensure the eggs and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing and a better texture.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Bananas: Provide potassium, fiber, and natural sweetness.
  • Walnuts: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and antioxidants.
  • Raisins: Add natural sweetness and are a good source of iron.

Dietary Information:

  • Contains dairy, eggs, and nuts.
  • Can be made gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage:

  • Store any leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Easy to make with simple ingredients.
  • Perfectly moist and flavorful with the addition of walnuts and raisins.
  • A versatile recipe that can be enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert.
  • The comforting taste of homemade banana bread that everyone loves.

Conclusion:

This Best Banana Bread recipe is a classic favorite, made even better with the addition of toasted walnuts and raisins. Follow these simple steps to create a moist, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delightful taste and comforting aroma of freshly baked banana bread!

Enjoy your baking!