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Moist Small-Batch Banana Bread with Walnuts

moist small-batch banana bread with walnuts - featured image

A simple, moist small-batch banana bread made in just two bowls with minimal cleanup. Perfect for using up overripe bananas, this recipe yields one standard loaf with a dense, tender crumb and crunchy walnuts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium ripe bananas (mashed, about 1.5 cups)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg (room temperature)
  • 1/2 cup walnuts (chopped)
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 8×4 inch loaf pan (or mini loaf pan) thoroughly with butter or oil.
  2. Melt the butter in a saucepan or microwave and let it cool slightly so it is warm but not hot.
  3. Mash the ripe bananas in a mixing bowl until mostly smooth with a few small lumps.
  4. Add the melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract to the bananas. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is a thick, glossy paste and sugar is mostly dissolved.
  5. Sprinkle baking soda and salt over the wet mixture, then add the flour.
  6. Stir gently with a spatula until the white streaks of flour disappear. Do not overmix.
  7. Gently fold in the chopped walnuts, reserving a small handful for topping.
  8. Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle reserved walnuts on top.
  9. Bake for 45-55 minutes for a standard loaf (or 30-35 minutes for a mini loaf) until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  10. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Use bananas with dark brown or black spots for maximum sweetness. Do not overmix the batter to avoid a tough texture. For best flavor, let the bread cool completely before slicing, though it is delicious warm. Day two often has the best flavor. Can be stored at room temperature for 3 days, refrigerated for 1 week, or frozen for 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: banana bread, small batch, walnuts, easy baking, quick bread, overripe bananas, moist banana bread