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Tender Extra Moist Banana Bread Recipe with Brown Butter and Walnuts

extra moist banana bread - featured image

This tender, extra moist banana bread features rich brown butter and toasted walnuts for a nutty depth and perfect crunch. It’s easy to make, forgiving, and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, browned
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (50g) packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 3/4 cup (90g) chopped walnuts, toasted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Brown the butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter. Stir frequently as it foams and turns golden brown with a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Toast the walnuts: Place 3/4 cup chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir often until fragrant and lightly browned. Transfer to a plate to cool.
  3. Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (if using). Set aside.
  4. Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, mash 3 medium ripe bananas until smooth but still a bit chunky. Whisk in the browned butter (cooled), 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until well combined.
  5. Fold dry into wet: Gently stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be thick and a little lumpy.
  6. Add walnuts: Fold in the toasted walnuts, reserving a small handful to sprinkle on top if desired.
  7. Prepare the pan: Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray. Pour the batter evenly into the pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle reserved walnuts on top.
  8. Bake: Place the pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 55-65 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. Tent with foil if top browns too fast.
  9. Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Watch the butter closely when browning to avoid burning. Use ripe bananas for best sweetness and moisture. Toast walnuts to enhance flavor and crunch. Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the bread tender. Baking times may vary; tent with foil if browning too fast.

Nutrition

Keywords: banana bread, brown butter, walnuts, moist banana bread, easy banana bread, homemade banana bread, quick bread, snack, dessert