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Moist One-Bowl Banana Walnut Bread

moist one-bowl banana walnut bread - featured image

A simple, one-bowl banana bread recipe that stays moist for days. Using melted butter and brown sugar, this easy quick bread delivers a tender crumb and rich flavor without needing a mixer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large overripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/2 cups)
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup (70g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup walnuts, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
  2. Mash the bananas in a medium mixing bowl until mostly smooth with a few small chunks.
  3. Pour the melted butter into the bowl with the bananas.
  4. Add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously until the sugar is mostly dissolved and the mixture is glossy.
  5. Sprinkle the flour, baking soda, and salt over the wet mixture.
  6. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
  7. 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 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs. If browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil after 30 minutes.
  10. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift out using parchment paper and cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

Use very ripe, spotty bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture. Do not overmix the batter once flour is added to avoid a tough texture. Toasting walnuts beforehand enhances their flavor. The bread improves in flavor after sitting for a day or two.

Nutrition

Keywords: banana bread, walnut bread, one bowl recipe, moist banana bread, easy quick bread, gluten-free option, dairy-free option