This banana and walnut loaf is a timeless homemade bake that’s soft, moist, and full of comforting flavor. Made with ripe bananas and crunchy walnuts, this loaf is perfect for breakfast, tea time, or a simple dessert. The natural sweetness of bananas pairs beautifully with toasted walnuts, creating a classic loaf that never goes out of style.
Whether you’re looking for a moist banana and walnut loaf, an old-fashioned banana and walnut loaf, or a simple bake using pantry ingredients, this recipe delivers every time. It can be made with regular or self-raising flour and even includes a touch of cinnamon for extra warmth.
Ingredients
To make this banana and walnut loaf soft and flavorful, you’ll need a few basic ingredients that come together easily.
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup sugar (white or brown)
- 2 eggs
- 1½ cups self-raising flour
- (or all-purpose flour + 1½ tsp baking powder)
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
This recipe works well if you’re searching for a banana and walnut loaf with self-raising flour or a banana bread with walnuts and cinnamon.
How to Make Banana and Walnut Loaf
This loaf is easy to prepare and doesn’t require any special equipment.
1. Prepare the Batter
Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). In a bowl, cream butter and sugar until light. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in mashed bananas and vanilla.
2. Add Dry Ingredients
Gently fold in the flour, cinnamon, and salt until just combined.
3. Add Walnuts
Stir in the chopped walnuts, reserving a few to sprinkle on top.
4. Bake the Loaf
Pour the batter into a greased loaf tin. Sprinkle extra walnuts on top and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean.
5. Cool and Serve
Allow the loaf to cool before slicing for the best texture.
Tips for the Best Banana and Walnut Loaf
These simple tips will help you achieve the best banana and walnut loaf every time.
- Use very ripe bananas for maximum moisture
- Do not overmix the batter
- Toast walnuts lightly for extra flavor
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth
- Let the loaf cool fully before slicing
This method ensures a perfectly moist banana and walnut loaf.
Serving Ideas
Banana and walnut loaf is versatile and easy to enjoy in different ways.
- Serve warm with butter
- Enjoy with tea or coffee
- Toast slices for breakfast
- Drizzle with honey or maple syrup
It also works beautifully as a banana and walnut cake for casual gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are answers to common questions about making Banana and Walnut Loaf recipe.
Is banana and walnut loaf the same as banana bread?
Yes, banana and walnut loaf is a variation of banana bread with added walnuts.
Can I add cinnamon to banana and walnut loaf?
Yes, cinnamon adds warmth and pairs perfectly with bananas and walnuts.
Can I make this loaf without walnuts?
Yes, you can omit walnuts or replace them with chocolate chips.
How do I store banana and walnut loaf?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate up to 5 days.
Can I freeze banana and walnut loaf?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

