Name: Easy Blueberry Banana Bread With Toasted Nuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 3 medium bananas (very ripe); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 large eggs (whisked); 1 1/2 cups flour; 1 cup sugar; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp nutmeg; 1 cup blueberries ((fresh or frozen)); 1/2 cup nuts ((pecans or walnuts), chopped)

If you’re on the hunt for a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the tartness of blueberries, then this Easy Blueberry Banana Bread With Toasted Nuts is just what you need. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even a simple dessert. The toasted nuts add a lovely crunch and elevate the flavors, making it an irresistible choice for your next baking adventure.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Blueberry banana bread is a classic twist on traditional banana bread, and this recipe takes it to a whole new level. Not only does it use very ripe bananas, which are naturally sweeter and provide a moist texture, but the addition of blueberries adds a burst of flavor in every bite. The toasted nuts offer a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft bread. It’s simple to make and can be enjoyed fresh from the oven or stored for later. It’s a crowd-pleaser that deserves a spot in your recipe collection!

Shopping List

3 medium bananas, very ripe
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 eggs, whisked
1 1/2 cups flour
1 cup sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
1/2 cup nuts (pecans or walnuts), chopped

What’s in the Gear List

Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
Loaf pan – to shape the banana bread.
Whisk – to thoroughly mix the eggs and wet ingredients.
Spatula – for folding in the blueberries and nuts.
Oven – to bake the bread to perfection.

Make Easy Blueberry Banana Bread With Toasted Nuts: A Simple Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your banana bread bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan

Grease a standard loaf pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. You can also line it with parchment paper for easier removal once baked.

Step 3: Mash the Bananas

In a large mixing bowl, mash the very ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth. The riper the bananas, the sweeter your bread will be!

Step 4: Mix in the Wet Ingredients

Add the melted unsalted butter to the mashed bananas and mix well. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and whisked eggs until everything is combined.

Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make sure there are no lumps and that the ingredients are well mixed.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are perfectly fine.

Step 7: Fold in Blueberries and Nuts

Gently fold in the blueberries and toasted nuts using a spatula. This step ensures that the blueberries are evenly distributed throughout the batter without breaking them.

Step 8: Pour into the Loaf Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Make sure to leave some space at the top, as the bread will rise while baking.

Step 9: Bake

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy your Easy Blueberry Banana Bread With Toasted Nuts warm or at room temperature!

Fresh Seasonal Changes

Spring: Add lemon zest for a fresh citrus flavor.
Summer: Swap blueberries for raspberries or strawberries for a berry medley.
Fall: Incorporate pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon for a seasonal twist.
Winter: Mix in chopped dried cranberries for a festive touch.

Chef’s Notes

For the best results, use bananas that are heavily speckled or even blackened, as they will provide the sweetest flavor. If you’re using frozen blueberries, there’s no need to thaw them; just add them straight into the batter. Toasting the nuts before adding them enhances their flavor and adds an extra crunch, but feel free to skip this step if you’re short on time. This banana bread can be customized with your favorite nuts or even chocolate chips for a sweet treat!

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Easy Blueberry Banana Bread With Toasted Nuts is perfect for making ahead of time. You can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat slices in the toaster or microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute blueberries with other berries such as raspberries, strawberries, or even diced apples or peaches. Just adjust the quantity based on the fruit’s moisture content.

What can I use instead of eggs?

If you need an egg substitute, you can use a flaxseed meal. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens, then use it in place of one egg.

How do I know when my banana bread is done?

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. If there is wet batter on the toothpick, bake it for a few more minutes.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend you choose is suitable for baking and has a good binding agent to achieve the right texture.

Keep Cooking

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Ready to Cook?

With this Easy Blueberry Banana Bread With Toasted Nuts recipe in hand, you’re all set to create a delicious treat that will impress family and friends alike. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or saved for a later date, this banana bread is sure to become a favorite in your household. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to bake!