Brown Butter Banana Nut Bread

Name: Brown Butter Banana Nut Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, browned; 2 large eggs; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 and 3/4 cups mashed overripe bananas (about 4 medium bananas); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, plus extra for garnishing

By:

Marry

Published:

October 28, 2025

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Brown Butter Banana Nut Bread is one of those delightful recipes that makes you feel right at home. It’s cozy, comforting, and so simple to whip up. Imagine walking into your kitchen, the sweet aroma of bananas mixing with that nutty scent of browned butter wafting through the air. It’s truly an experience that evokes warmth and joy, reminiscent of lazy Sunday mornings or gatherings with family. Plus, this recipe brings an exciting twist to traditional banana bread with the addition of brown butter, which adds depth and flavor that you just can’t resist.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or just dipping your toes into the world of home cooking, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. With just a few overripe bananas, some pantry staples, and a bit of love, you’ll be on your way to creating something truly scrumptious. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive right into making this Brown Butter Banana Nut Bread that everyone will be raving about!

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to this recipe lies in the beauty of brown butter. As you melt the butter, it transforms into a golden elixir with a rich, nutty flavor that can elevate any dish, especially banana bread. When mixed with the overripe bananas, you create a sweet blend that brings a soft, moist texture to each slice. Those mashed bananas not only infuse natural sweetness but also boost the bread’s moisture content.

Then we have walnuts, which lend a perfect crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender crumb. Together, they create a sensational blend that you simply cannot get enough of!

Why You’ll Love This Brown Butter Banana Nut Bread

With its straightforward ingredients, this Brown Butter Banana Nut Bread showcases the beauty of simplicity. You won’t need a long list of exotic items; just a handful of ingredients you probably already have at home. As you bake, the warm, inviting scent of brown butter will fill your kitchen, wrapping you in nostalgia and comfort.

Moreover, its versatility is a true treasure. Serve it warm for breakfast, pair it with a cup of coffee for an afternoon snack, or enjoy a slice as a sweet dessert. This bread ticks all the boxes, making it an instant favorite among family and friends.

Ingredients

To whip up this delightful banana bread, gather the following ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, browned
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 and 3/4 cups mashed overripe bananas (about 4 medium bananas)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, plus extra for garnishing

The Perfect Brown Butter

Get Your Butter Ready

Before we get started, let’s set the stage. Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures your bread bakes evenly. Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or if you prefer, line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Brown the Butter

Now for the fun part! In a light-colored pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk it constantly as it melts, watching it bubble and foam. You’ll see it begin to settle down. Just when it turns light brown and you catch that rich, nutty aroma, be sure to remove it from the heat. Pour it into a bowl and let it cool slightly. You don’t want to cook it further at this stage.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until combined. Next, fold in the mashed bananas, followed by the cooled browned butter and vanilla extract. This mixture creates a luscious base for your bread.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually combine these dry ingredients with your wet mixture. Remember to mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to a denser loaf.

Add Nuts

Now it’s time for some crunch! Gently fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts to provide that satisfying texture we all love in banana bread.

Prepare for Baking

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. If you enjoy the taste of walnuts, consider topping with extra chopped walnuts for an appealing look and a little more crunch.

Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. If you notice the top browning too quickly, feel free to tent it with foil for even baking. Once done, allow the bread to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack.

Serve and Enjoy

Once completely cooled, slice and serve your scrumptious Brown Butter Banana Nut Bread! Enjoy the fruits of your labor and the smiles it brings to those around you.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra special touch, enjoy a warm slice with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making for a delightful breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up.

Tips for Success

Make sure to use very ripe bananas for the best sweetness and flavor.
Don’t skip the step of browning the butter, as it’s vital for the unique taste.
Double-check that your oven temperature is accurate for even baking results.

Variations

Feel free to personalize your bread! You can swap walnuts with pecans for a different flavor profile. For a sweeter treat, consider adding chocolate chips or shredded coconut for a fun twist.

Storage Tips

To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to store it for longer, wrap it tightly and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it at room temperature before serving.

Pairing Ideas

Level up your experience by adding a dollop of cream cheese frosting for a decadent touch. Alternatively, fresh fruit or a simple yogurt can beautifully complement the flavors of your bread.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess moisture before mashing.

2. How do I know when the bread is done baking?
Simply insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or have a few moist crumbs.

3. Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, you can! Brown sugar will introduce a richer flavor.

4. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Certainly! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.

5. How can I make this bread healthier?
Try using whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar slightly for a healthier twist.

This Brown Butter Banana Nut Bread warms the heart and fills your kitchen with inviting aromas. It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence, becoming a staple in any home. With its rich flavors and delightful textures, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and again—be it for breakfast, a snack, or as a treat to share with loved ones. Happy baking!

Brown Butter Banana Nut Bread

Why This Recipe Works

Why You’ll Love This Brown Butter Banana Nut Bread

Ingredients