The Best Moist Banana Nut Bread

posted by Mina

Mar 13, 2016 4569 39 0

Would you know it, another banana recipe! The classic banana bread has become a staple in the “loaf” family of quick breads, causing the eternal debate: is it a bread or is it a cake? Either way, it is delicious.

With so many variations out there—from the classic Pillsbury release to Chiquita’s own version—I’ve experimented and tried just about all of them. The recipe below is the one that delivers every single time. It is traditionally comforting, yet surprisingly complex thanks to one special addition – Orange Zest.

two slices of banana bread

Why This Recipe Works

Banana bread is good, but what makes it great is when it creates that perfect balance of dense, moist crumb and bright flavor.

The Orange Zest: Most banana breads are heavy. Adding the grated rind of one orange cuts through the density and highlights the tropical flavor of the banana without making it taste like an orange cake.
The Texture: We use melted butter and buttermilk, which ensures the loaf stays soft for days.
The Crunch: Walnuts add a necessary textural contrast to the soft bread.

The most critical rule for this recipe? Overly ripe bananas must be used.

Using bananas that are black and spotty creates a moist bread and adds that sought-after, deep banana flavor. Green or yellow bananas simply don’t have the sugar content needed.

If you have a craving but your bananas are still yellow place your bananas in a brown paper bag with an apple or an already ripe fruit. The ethylene gas will speed up the ripening process significantly.

Ingredients and Equipment

For these quantities, you will want to use a 9x5x3 loaf pan. You’ll need two mixing bowls (one for wet, one for dry) and a spatula. Using a spatula to gently fold the ingredients helps prevent over-mixing, which ensures the bread stays tender.

The Base: All-purpose flour, sugar, and melted butter.
The Leavening: A mix of baking powder and baking soda.
The Moisture: 3 eggs, buttermilk, and 3-4 medium mashed bananas.
The Flavor: Salt, chopped walnuts, and the orange zest.
Variations and Optional Additions

While I love the walnut and orange combination, you can easily customize this batter:
- Chocolate Chips: I understand if you do—chocolate makes everything better! Semi-sweet chips pair wonderfully with the orange zest.
- Coconut Flakes: Add these for extra chewiness and a more tropical vibe.
- Dried Fruits: Cranberries or raisins are especially great during the holiday season.
- Nut Variations: Walnuts are the preferred flavor combination, but pecans or hazelnuts work well too.

How to Store and Freeze Banana Bread

This bread is incredibly moist, which means it keeps well, but you have to store it correctly.

Countertop: Store the cooled bread in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This recipe freezes beautifully! Slice the loaf, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, and place them in a Ziploc bag. Thaw on the counter for a quick breakfast or microwave for 15 seconds to eat warm.