If you’ve ever dreamed of the perfect comfort food to cozy up with, then this Moist Banana Bread with Walnuts and Raisins Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine tender slices bursting with rich banana flavor, the satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts, and the sweet chewiness of raisins swirled throughout — it’s the ultimate homemade treat that fills your kitchen with the most irresistible aroma and your heart with pure joy. This recipe truly nails that ideal balance of moistness and texture, making each bite a little moment of bliss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this recipe are simple pantry staples, but each one plays a crucial role in bringing this banana bread to life. From ripe bananas that add natural sweetness and moisture to the walnuts and raisins that provide delightful contrast, these ingredients come together beautifully to form a loaf that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
- 3 very ripe bananas: The star of the show, these add sweetness, moisture, and that unmistakable banana flavor.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (8 Tbsp) at room temperature: Creamy richness that keeps the bread tender and soft.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Balanced sweetness to enhance the bananas without overpowering them.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure to the loaf.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base that holds everything together perfectly.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the bread rise beautifully and stay light.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- ½ tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and subtle depth to the taste.
- 1 cup walnuts: Toasted for a nutty crunch that contrasts the soft crumb.
- ½ cup raisins: Little pockets of natural sweetness and chewiness throughout the bread.
How to Make Moist Banana Bread with Walnuts and Raisins Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Nuts
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Preparing the loaf pan by greasing and lightly flouring it helps ensure your banana bread releases easily after baking. Don’t forget to give those walnuts a quick roast on the stovetop. This toasting step deepens their flavor and gives your bread a wonderful nuttiness while preventing any bitterness. Once roasted, chop them coarsely and let them cool down to room temperature.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is fluffy and light. This step is key to creating that tender crumb we’ve all been dreaming of, as it incorporates air into the batter and sets the stage for a perfectly moist bread.
Step 3: Combine Bananas and Eggs
Mash your bananas with a fork until they resemble chunky applesauce — this texture brings bursts of banana throughout each slice without being too mushy. Then, mix them into your creamed butter and sugar along with the lightly beaten eggs. Blend everything until smooth and consistent, making sure the flavors have started to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the rising agent and seasoning so that your bread will bake uniformly. Once combined, fold the dry mix gently into your wet ingredients, careful not to overmix, which can make the bread tough.
Step 5: Add Vanilla, Walnuts, and Raisins, Then Bake
Stir in the vanilla extract for a subtle aromatic lift, followed by your chopped walnuts and raisins. These mix-ins bring texture and flavor contrast that make every bite interesting and delicious. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 55-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow your banana bread to rest in the pan for 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to fully cool — patience here rewards you with slices that hold together perfectly.
How to Serve Moist Banana Bread with Walnuts and Raisins Recipe
Garnishes
While this banana bread stands beautifully on its own, a pat of melted butter or a light spread of cream cheese can turn your slice into a decadent treat. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey adds a touch of elegance and a hint of extra sweetness. For nut lovers, add a few extra toasted walnuts on top for that inviting crunch and aroma right before serving.
Side Dishes
This banana bread pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a bowl of mixed berries to brighten the plate. For coffee lovers, a warm cup of freshly brewed coffee or chai tea makes a perfect companion to this rich, moist treat. A dollop of yogurt on the side can also freshen the palate and add a lovely creamy tang.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this Moist Banana Bread with Walnuts and Raisins Recipe sliced thick and layered with nut butter and sliced bananas for a quick breakfast sandwich. Or toast the slices lightly and top with ricotta and a drizzle of maple syrup for an elevated brunch option. For gatherings, cut the bread into mini squares or sticks and serve with an assortment of dips like chocolate ganache or fruit preserves — it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, wrap your banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and freshness. Leftover slices will stay delicious at room temperature for up to 3 days, making it perfect for snacking all week long.
Freezing
This Moist Banana Bread with Walnuts and Raisins Recipe freezes beautifully. Slice the bread before freezing and wrap each slice or the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the oven or toaster.
Reheating
For that fresh-baked feel, reheat slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes. This revives the bread’s soft texture while bringing the walnuts’ toasted aroma back to life. A quick zap in the microwave for 10-15 seconds also works if you’re in a hurry, but be careful not to dry it out.
FAQs
Can I substitute the walnuts with another nut?
Absolutely! Pecans or almonds make wonderful alternatives and will give your banana bread a slightly different but equally delicious crunch and flavor.
Is it necessary to toast the walnuts?
Toasting walnuts isn’t mandatory, but it enhances their flavor significantly and prevents any bitterness, giving you that rich, nutty aroma that complements the banana bread so perfectly.
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, frozen bananas work great as long as they are thoroughly thawed and drained to avoid adding excess liquid, which could affect your loaf’s texture.
How do I know when the banana bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick or thin skewer into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your banana bread is perfectly baked and ready to cool.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum for structure, and keep the other ingredients the same for a delicious gluten-free version.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving that warm, homemade flavor that only banana bread can deliver, this Moist Banana Bread with Walnuts and Raisins Recipe is your perfect go-to. It’s effortless to whip up, full of incredible textures and flavors, and guarantees a big smile with every bite. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen and the treat everyone asks you to make again and again.
Print
Moist Banana Bread with Walnuts and Raisins Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Moist Banana Bread recipe delivers a perfectly soft and flavorful loaf, packed with ripe bananas, crunchy walnuts, and sweet raisins. Baked to golden perfection, this classic quick bread is ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, featuring a tender crumb and subtle vanilla aroma.
Ingredients
Banana Bread Ingredients
- 3 very ripe bananas (medium/large)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (8 Tbsp), at room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup walnuts
- ½ cup raisins
Instructions
- Prepare Pan and Roast Walnuts: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bread loaf pan measuring approximately 9.25 x 5.25 x 2.75 inches. Lightly roast the walnuts on a skillet over medium heat, stirring continuously to avoid burning. Once toasted, coarsely chop the walnuts and set aside to cool to room temperature.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the 8 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter and 3/4 cup granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step helps to incorporate air, contributing to a tender crumb.
- Mash Bananas and Combine: Mash the ripe bananas with a fork until they resemble chunky applesauce. Add the mashed bananas and lightly beaten eggs to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Mix gently until fully blended.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. This evenly distributes the leavening agent and salt throughout the flour.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana batter, mixing just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing to maintain a moist and tender texture.
- Add Flavorings and Mix-ins: Stir in ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, the cooled chopped walnuts, and raisins evenly throughout the batter.
- Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Bread: Remove the banana bread from the oven and let it rest in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Make sure the bananas are very ripe for optimal sweetness and moisture.
- Lightly roasting walnuts enhances their flavor and crunch.
- Do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to avoid a dense texture.
- You can substitute raisins with chocolate chips or omit them according to preference.
- Store banana bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
