Paula Deenβs Banana Nut Bread Recipe is a delightful treat that appeals to both novice and experienced bakers. This easy banana nut bread is perfect for various occasions, whether youβre enjoying it at breakfast, serving it as a snack, or presenting it at a gathering. Its unique blend of ripe bananas and crunchy walnuts creates a moist and flavorful loaf thatβs sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, youβll have a delicious dessert ready in no time.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 10 minutes to prep, making it perfect for busy days.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of ripe bananas and walnuts delivers a rich taste that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile Use: Enjoy this banana nut bread warm with butter or as a satisfying snack on its own.
- Perfect for Sharing: With 10 servings, itβs great for family gatherings or potlucks.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to add chocolate chips or other nuts for an extra twist!
Tools and Preparation
To make Paula Deenβs Banana Nut Bread successfully, having the right tools makes all the difference.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Loaf pans
- Oven
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills.
- Whisk: Ensures even mixing of wet ingredients for a smooth batter.
- Rubber spatula: Ideal for folding in ingredients gently, preserving texture.
Ingredients
Paula Deenβs Banana Nut Bread is made with flour, baking soda, salt, sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, ripe bananas, and walnuts. This easy banana nut bread recipe creates a delicious dessert that takes about 55 minutes to prepare and can serve up to 10 people.
For the Bread
- 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
- 1Β½ teaspoons baking soda
- Pinch salt
- 1 cup (198 g) granulated sugar
- Β½ cup (99 g) vegetable oil
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 medium ripe bananas, mashed (about 1β cups or 303 grams)
- 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 350Β°F (175Β°C). Grease two 8Γ4-inch (20Γ10 cm) loaf pans and set them aside.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until well mixed.
2. Set the dry mixture aside.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together the sugar and vegetable oil until combined.
2. Add the eggs and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
Step 4: Add Bananas
Stir in the mashed bananas into the wet mixture until just combined.
Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients using a rubber spatula until fully incorporated.
Step 6: Fold in Walnuts
Using your rubber spatula, carefully fold in the coarsely chopped walnuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 7: Bake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans. Bake in your preheated oven for about 35 to 45 minutes. Check if done by inserting a thin knife into the center; it should come out clean. If necessary, cover with foil if tops darken too quickly.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the loaves to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious Paula Deen Banana Nut Bread!
How to Serve Paula Deen Banana Nut Bread Recipe
Paula Deen Banana Nut Bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want to serve it as a dessert after dinner or as a snack during the day, there are plenty of options to make this bread even more enjoyable.
Toasted with Butter
- Spread a thin layer of butter on warm slices for a rich flavor that complements the bananas and walnuts.
With Cream Cheese Spread
- Pair your banana nut bread with a light cream cheese spread for an extra creamy texture and tangy taste.
Served with Fresh Fruit
- Enhance your serving with fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples for a refreshing contrast to the sweet bread.
As Breakfast Toast
- Enjoy slices of banana nut bread toasted and topped with peanut butter or almond butter for a filling breakfast option.
Accompanied by Coffee or Tea
- Serve this bread alongside your favorite cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon snack.
With Yogurt and Honey
- Add a dollop of yogurt drizzled with honey on top for an indulgent treat thatβs also healthy.
How to Perfect Paula Deen Banana Nut Bread Recipe
To achieve the best results when making Paula Deen Banana Nut Bread, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your bread turns out moist, flavorful, and perfectly baked.
Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your bread will be. Look for bananas speckled with brown spots for optimal flavor.
Donβt Overmix: Gently fold the ingredients together. Overmixing can lead to dense bread instead of light and fluffy loafs.
Check Doneness Early: Start checking your banana nut bread around 35 minutes. Ovens vary, so you might need less time than suggested.
Cool Properly: Allow your bread to cool in the pans before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its structure.
Add Extra Nuts or Chocolate: For added texture and flavor, consider folding in some chocolate chips or extra walnuts into the batter.
Best Side Dishes for Paula Deen Banana Nut Bread Recipe
Pairing side dishes with Paula Deen Banana Nut Bread can elevate your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement the flavors beautifully.
- Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and balances sweetness while providing protein.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the bread.
- Cottage Cheese: High in protein, cottage cheese topped with sliced peaches offers a savory contrast.
- Honey Drizzled Ricotta: Creamy ricotta mixed with honey creates a sweet dip that pairs well with banana nut bread.
- Oatmeal: A bowl of warm oatmeal can complement banana flavors; add nuts or fruits for extra texture.
- Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl topped with granola can provide a nutritious side filled with vitamins.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This pudding offers a unique texture and can be flavored to match or contrast with the banana nut bread.
- Nut Mix: A small bowl of mixed nuts adds crunch and protein while enhancing the overall snacking experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Paula Deenβs Banana Nut Bread can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your bread turns out perfectly.
- Overripe Bananas: Using bananas that are too ripe can make the bread overly sweet and mushy. Aim for bananas that have brown spots but still hold their shape.
- Incorrect Oven Temperature: Not preheating the oven properly can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat to 350Β°F (175Β°C) before putting the batter in.
- Mixing Too Much: Overmixing the batter can result in a tough texture. Mix until just combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
- Ignoring Baking Time: Checking for doneness too early or too late can ruin your bread. Use a thin knife to test; it should come out clean when done.
- Not Greasing Pans: Failing to grease your loaf pans can cause sticking. Make sure to grease them well or use parchment paper for easy removal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store the banana nut bread in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Paula Deen Banana Nut Bread Recipe
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
- The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Paula Deen Banana Nut Bread Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Wrap the bread in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for about 15-30 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat, add a slice of bread, and cover with a lid. Warm for about 2-3 minutes per side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Paula Deenβs Banana Nut Bread recipe.
What makes Paula Deen Banana Nut Bread Recipe special?
Paula Deenβs recipe blends ripe bananas and walnuts, creating a moist and flavorful bread thatβs perfect for any occasion.
Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
Yes! You can substitute walnuts with pecans or even chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter variation.
How do I ripen bananas quickly?
To ripen bananas quickly, place them in a brown paper bag at room temperature. This traps ethylene gas, speeding up the ripening process.
Can I make this banana nut bread gluten-free?
You can replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of Paula Deenβs Banana Nut Bread.
Final Thoughts
Paula Deenβs Banana Nut Bread is not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. Its versatility allows for various customizations such as adding chocolate chips or using different nuts. Try it today, and enjoy this delightful treat with family and friends!

Paula Deen Banana Nut Bread
- Author: Adeline
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful goodness of Paula Deen Banana Nut Bread, a moist and flavorful loaf thatβs perfect for any time of day. This easy banana nut bread recipe is made with ripe bananas and crunchy walnuts, creating a harmonious blend of sweetness and texture that will impress both novice and experienced bakers alike. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or at gatherings with family and friends, this banana nut loaf is sure to become a favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, youβll have a delicious treat ready in no time.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1Β½ teaspoons baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- Β½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 medium ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup coarsely chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and grease two 8Γ4-inch loaf pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix sugar and vegetable oil until combined. Add eggs and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
- Stir in mashed bananas until just combined.
- Gently fold in the dry mixture until fully incorporated.
- Fold in chopped walnuts evenly into the batter.
- Divide the batter between prepared pans and bake for 35 to 45 minutes until a knife inserted comes out clean.
- Let loaves cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (60g)
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Use overripe bananas for optimal sweetness. Don't overmix the batter to ensure a fluffy loaf. Consider adding chocolate chips or swapping walnuts for pecans for different flavors.








