Paula Deen Banana Nut Bread Recipe

Paula Deen’s Banana Nut Bread Recipe is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy banana nut bread recipe combines the rich flavors of ripe bananas and crunchy walnuts, creating a moist and tender loaf. Whether you’re enjoying it as a breakfast option, an afternoon snack, or a dessert, this banana nut bread is sure to impress friends and family alike. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find that baking this bread is both enjoyable and rewarding.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious bread in the oven in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of ripe bananas and walnuts offers a sweet and nutty taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert; enjoy it plain or with your favorite spread.
• Makes Great Gifts: Share the love by giving a loaf to friends or family; it’s a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Freezer-Friendly: You can easily freeze leftovers for later enjoyment without losing flavor or texture.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes the baking process smooth and enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to make Paula Deen’s Banana Nut Bread.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Loaf pans
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Allows you to easily combine wet and dry ingredients without spilling.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for folding in ingredients gently, ensuring a uniform batter without overmixing.
• Loaf pans: The right size is crucial for even baking and achieving that perfect shape.
• Wire rack: Provides proper air circulation while cooling, preventing soggy bottoms.

Ingredients

To make Paula Deen’s Banana Nut Bread, gather the following ingredients:

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons baking soda
• Pinch salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup (198 g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (99 g) vegetable oil
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 medium ripe bananas, mashed (about 1⅓ cups or 303 grams)

Add-ins

• 1 cup (113 g) coarsely chopped walnuts

How to Make Paula Deen Banana Nut Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8×4-inch (20×10 cm) loaf pans; set aside.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well blended.

Step 4: Add Bananas

Stir in the mashed bananas until just combined.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Fold in Walnuts

Using a rubber spatula, fold in the chopped walnuts evenly throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until a thin knife inserted into the center comes out clean. If needed, cover with foil if the tops darken too quickly.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow loaves to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your homemade banana nut bread!

How to Serve Paula Deen Banana Nut Bread Recipe

Paula Deen’s Banana Nut Bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to serve it for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack, there are plenty of options to enhance your experience.

With Cream Cheese Spread

• A smooth layer of cream cheese adds richness and a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the banana bread.

Topped with Fresh Fruit

• Slices of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries bring a burst of freshness and color to your plate.

Drizzled with Honey

• A drizzle of honey adds natural sweetness and a touch of elegance, making each bite even more delicious.

Accompanied by Coffee or Tea

• Enjoying a slice with a warm cup of coffee or tea creates a cozy moment perfect for any time of day.

Served Warm with Butter

• Warmed slices spread with butter melt into the bread for a comforting and indulgent experience.

As Part of a Breakfast Platter

• Include banana nut bread on a platter with yogurt, granola, and assorted fruits for a satisfying breakfast spread.

How to Perfect Paula Deen Banana Nut Bread Recipe

To ensure your banana nut bread turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips. They will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.

• Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for the best results.

• Measure Flour Accurately: To avoid dense bread, spoon flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping it directly from the bag.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the bread light and fluffy. Overmixing can make it tough.

• Test for Doneness: Use a toothpick or knife inserted into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s done!

• Cool Properly: Letting the bread cool in the pan prevents sogginess. Transfer it to a wire rack after 10 minutes for optimal cooling.

Best Side Dishes for Paula Deen Banana Nut Bread Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your banana nut bread can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement its flavors well.

1. Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein while balancing the sweetness of the bread.

2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides contrast in texture and flavor, making for an enjoyable side.

3. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts or fruit offers heartiness alongside your sweet treat.

4. Granola Bars: Chewy granola bars add crunch and can serve as an easy grab-and-go option when paired with banana nut bread.

5. Chia Pudding: Creamy chia pudding infused with vanilla or cocoa makes for a nutritious and delicious accompaniment.

6. Nut Butter Toasts: Whole grain toast spread with almond or peanut butter brings an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with banana nut bread.

7. Smoothies: A fruit smoothie packed with greens provides freshness and balances out the richness of the banana nut bread.

8. Cottage Cheese: Serve cottage cheese on the side for added protein and creaminess that complements this sweet treat perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making banana nut bread can be simple, but avoiding common pitfalls will ensure your loaf turns out perfectly. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using Overripe Bananas: Using bananas that are too ripe can lead to a soggy texture. Aim for bananas with brown spots but not fully brown.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Mixing Too Much: Overmixing the batter can make the bread dense and tough. Mix until just combined for a light texture.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Every oven is different. Start checking your bread a few minutes before the suggested time to avoid overbaking.
• Not Cooling Properly: Allowing the bread to cool completely prevents it from becoming gummy. Use a wire rack for even cooling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container: This keeps the bread fresh and prevents it from drying out.
• Lasts up to 5 days: Enjoy your banana nut bread for several days after baking.

Freezing Paula Deen Banana Nut Bread Recipe

• Wrap slices tightly: Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Lasts up to 3 months: Your banana nut bread can stay fresh in the freezer for an extended period.

Reheating Paula Deen Banana Nut Bread Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat slices for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Paula Deen Banana Nut Bread Recipe:

What makes Paula Deen Banana Nut Bread Recipe special?

Paula Deen’s recipe features a unique blend of flavors and textures, thanks to ripe bananas and crunchy walnuts, creating a delightful treat.

Can I use other nuts in this banana nut bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans or any other nuts you prefer.

How do I make banana nut bread more moist?

Adding an extra mashed banana or using yogurt can enhance moisture without altering the flavor significantly.

How long does Paula Deen Banana Nut Bread last?

When stored properly, it can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Paula Deen’s Banana Nut Bread is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and easy to customize. You can add chocolate chips, swap nuts, or even include spices like cinnamon for added flavor. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a comforting treat that’s perfect any time of day!

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Paula Deen’s Banana Nut Bread

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in a slice of Paula Deen’s Banana Nut Bread, a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunch of walnuts. This easy-to-follow recipe results in a moist and tender loaf, making it perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. With only 10 minutes of prep time and simple ingredients, you’ll be able to impress friends and family with your homemade creation. Whether enjoyed plain, topped with cream cheese, or drizzled with honey, this banana nut bread is sure to become a favorite in your home.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 medium ripe bananas (mashed)
• 1 cup coarsely chopped walnuts

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8×4-inch loaf pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, mix sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla until blended.
4. Stir in mashed bananas until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the flour mixture until incorporated; avoid overmixing.
6. Add chopped walnuts and fold evenly through the batter.
7. Divide batter between prepared pans and bake for 35 to 45 minutes or until a knife inserted comes out clean.
8. Cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 178
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 160mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 21mg