Banana Nut Bread with Honey Glaze
Highlighted under: Artisan Dessert Bakes
Banana Nut Bread with Honey Glaze is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of ripe bananas and crunchy nuts, all finished off with a sweet honey glaze. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack!
There's something so comforting about the smell of freshly baked banana bread wafting through the kitchen. This Banana Nut Bread with Honey Glaze not only brings back warm memories but also adds a touch of sweetness with a honey drizzle that complements the nutty flavors perfectly.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Moist and tender bread with a perfect crumb
- Deliciously crunchy nuts for added texture
- Sweet honey glaze that elevates the flavors
The Magic of Ripe Bananas
Ripe bananas are the star of this Banana Nut Bread, bringing both natural sweetness and moisture to the recipe. The browner the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful they become. This is because the starch in the bananas converts to sugar as they ripen, making them ideal for baking. Plus, using ripe bananas helps to create that tender crumb that everyone loves in a good loaf of bread.
In addition to their flavor, ripe bananas are packed with essential nutrients. They are a great source of potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, which can aid digestion and promote heart health. By incorporating them into your baking, you're not just creating a delicious treat; you're also adding a nutritious component to your diet.
Choosing the Right Nuts
When it comes to nuts for your Banana Nut Bread, walnuts are a classic choice. Their rich, buttery flavor complements the sweetness of the bananas beautifully. Walnuts are also known for their health benefits, including being high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health and reducing inflammation.
If you're feeling adventurous, consider experimenting with other types of nuts. Pecans add a sweeter, milder flavor, while hazelnuts can introduce a delightful crunch and unique taste. Whatever nuts you choose, be sure to chop them roughly for an even distribution throughout the bread, enhancing both texture and flavor in every bite.
Perfect Pairings
Banana Nut Bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it warm with a pat of butter for a comforting breakfast or slice it up for a quick snack on the go. It also pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal choice for afternoon gatherings or brunches.
For those looking to elevate their experience, consider adding a smear of cream cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt on top of each slice. The creamy texture and tangy flavor complement the sweetness of the bread perfectly, creating a delightful contrast that will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Banana Nut 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 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
For the Honey Glaze
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork. Stir in the melted butter, then add the baking soda and salt. Mix well.
Combine Sugar and Egg
Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the banana mixture, stirring until combined.
Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Add the flour and chopped walnuts to the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Honey Glaze
While the bread is baking, mix together the honey and melted butter in a small bowl.
Glaze the Bread
Once the bread is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Drizzle the honey glaze over the warm bread before serving.
Storing Your Banana Nut Bread
To keep your Banana Nut Bread fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain its moisture and prevent it from drying out. If you live in a particularly humid area, you can refrigerate the bread, but be aware that this may change the texture slightly.
For longer storage, consider freezing your Banana Nut Bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop slices in the microwave for a quick reheating option.
Customizing Your Recipe
This Banana Nut Bread recipe is incredibly adaptable. Feel free to add in extras like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor boost. Just be mindful of the balance of wet and dry ingredients, as adding too many mix-ins can affect the bread's texture.
You can also make it healthier by substituting some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or adding oats for added fiber. These small changes can make your Banana Nut Bread a more wholesome choice without sacrificing flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
→ How do I store leftover banana bread?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
→ What nuts can I use instead of walnuts?
Pecans, almonds, or macadamia nuts work well as substitutes.
Banana Nut Bread with Honey Glaze
Banana Nut Bread with Honey Glaze is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of ripe bananas and crunchy nuts, all finished off with a sweet honey glaze. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack!
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Artisan Dessert Bakes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Banana Nut 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 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
For the Honey Glaze
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork. Stir in the melted butter, then add the baking soda and salt. Mix well.
Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the banana mixture, stirring until combined.
Add the flour and chopped walnuts to the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the bread is baking, mix together the honey and melted butter in a small bowl.
Once the bread is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Drizzle the honey glaze over the warm bread before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g