Ah, there’s something so comforting about the aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? Today, I want to share a special recipe with you that has stolen my heart (and taste buds): Maple Pecan Banana Bread! It’s moist, sweet, and oh-so-nutty — the perfect companion for a cozy afternoon coffee break or a delightful dessert after dinner.
This recipe reminds me of rainy afternoons spent baking with my grandmother. She would always say that the best dishes come from the heart, and I can’t help but feel that love when I make this bread. Plus, who wouldn’t want to indulge in the rich flavors of mashed bananas mingling with maple syrup and crunchy pecans? Trust me, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household too!
What’s in Maple Pecan Banana Bread?
Let’s break it down, shall we? Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious treat:
Ripe Bananas: The star of the show! Make sure they’re nice and spotty — that means they’re sweet and perfect for mashing.
Granulated Sugar: A cup of sweetness to bring out the flavors of the bananas and maple syrup.
Unsalted Butter: Using softened butter helps create that fluffy texture we all love. It’s essential for the creaming process!
Eggs: These help bind everything together and make the bread rise nicely.
Vanilla Extract: Just a teaspoon to enhance those delicious flavors! I love using pure vanilla for the best aroma.
Maple Syrup: Oh, the golden nectar! It adds a unique sweetness and depth — plus, it’s a nod to cozy breakfasts.
Baking Soda: This little helper is crucial for that perfect rise!
Salt: Just half a teaspoon to balance the sweetness.
All-Purpose Flour: The base of our bread — I always keep mine sifted for fluffiness.
Pecans: Not just for mixing in, but also for that crunchy topping. I like to chop them finely for a nice texture throughout.
Powdered Sugar: For the sweet icing — because why not add a little extra indulgence?
Milk: To help mix the icing into a smooth drizzle.
Now that you know what goes into this delight, let’s chat about whether it’s good for you!
Is Maple Pecan Banana Bread Good for You?
This delicious bread does carry a few health benefits worth noting!
Bananas: Packed with potassium, they’re great for heart health and boosting energy. Plus, they add natural sweetness, reducing the need for extra sugar.
Pecans: These nuts are rich in healthy fats and protein. They also contain fiber, vitamins, and minerals — a perfect crunch for your slice!
However, I’ll be honest: with the sugar and butter, it’s more of an indulgent treat than a health food. So, enjoy it in moderation, especially if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Ingredients
This recipe serves about 8 slices and here’s what you’ll need:
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup pecans, finely chopped (plus extra for topping)
– 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
– 2 tablespoons milk (for icing)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing)
How to Make Maple Pecan Banana Bread?
Now, let’s get baking!
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set it aside — trust me, you don’t want to mess with sticking banana bread!
2. In a medium bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. It’s like a workout for your arms, but totally worth it!
3. Add in the eggs one at a time, followed by the mashed bananas and vanilla extract. Mix until it’s all combined and looking delicious.
4. Stir in that lovely maple syrup into your banana mixture until it’s all mixed up!
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, and flour until it’s all blended nicely.
6. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into your wet mixture. Remember, we’re not going for gluten buildup here, so just mix it until combined.
7. Gently fold in those chopped pecans, saving a handful for the topping. It’s gonna bring that extra crunch!
8. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Don’t forget to sprinkle the reserved pecans on top!
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes. That’s right, escape into the kitchen paradise of banana bread goodness while you wait!
10. While your bread bakes, prepare the icing by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and another splash of vanilla extract until it’s smooth.
11. Once the banana bread is done, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Drizzle that sweet icing over the top once it’s cooled and serve. Enjoy every mouthful of your maple pecan banana bread!
Sweet Tips for Your Maple Pecan Banana Bread
– If you have extra bananas lying around, just freeze them for your next batch! They’ll be perfect for baking.
– Want to make it extra indulgent? Toss in some chocolate chips! Who could say no to that?
– This banana bread goes fabulously with a side of coffee or tea, making it an instant favorite for your next brunch.
I hope you’re as excited to try this Maple Pecan Banana Bread recipe as I am! It’s such a joy to make and share with loved ones. As you sample those moist bites with a drizzle of icing, take a moment to savor the warmth and happiness that comes with baking from scratch. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out! Happy baking!
