- Quick bread mix (ensure it's labeled as suitable for banana nut bread)
- Ripe bananas, mashed
- Eggs
- Vegetable oil or melted butter
- Brown sugar
- Walnuts or other nuts, chopped
- Vanilla extract (optional but enhances flavor)
- Baking powder (included in the quick bread mix, so check for additional needed)
- Salt (a pinch, as per package instructions)
*Note: Always verify that your quick bread mix contains all necessary ingredients to avoid adding duplicates or missing key components.*
Steps
### Delicious Banana Nut Bread Recipe Using Quick Bread Mix
Banana nut bread is a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the rich flavor of nuts. Making it using quick bread mix makes this recipe even easier, allowing you to enjoy your favorite banana bread in no time.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 package (9 oz) of quick bread mix (preferably banana bread or zucchini bread mix)
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
#### Equipment Needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- 9x5-inch loaf pan
- Cooling rack
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven:**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter for easy removal later.
2. **Combine Wet Ingredients:**
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted butter. Stir until well mixed. Add vanilla extract and mix again to ensure it’s evenly distributed throughout the banana mixture.
3. **Add Dry Ingredients:**
Gradually add the quick bread mix (banana or zucchini) into the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined – be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread tough.
4. **Fold in Nuts:**
Gently fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter. This step should be done carefully to avoid breaking up the nuts too much and to maintain their crunchiness.
5. **Pour Batter Into Pan:**
Pour the banana nut mixture into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Smooth out the top for an even baking surface.
6. **Bake the Bread:**
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The exterior of the bread should be golden brown, indicating it is fully baked.
7. **Cooling and Slicing:**
Remove from the oven and let the banana nut bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.
### Tips for Perfect Banana Nut Bread:
- Ensure your bananas are very ripe; this will give you the best flavor.
- Use high-quality nuts for the best taste and texture.
- Let the bread fully cool to prevent squishing when slicing.