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barefoot contessa banana bread

Barefoot Contessa Banana Bread Recipe

Sharon Brown
Banana bread is a wonderfully versatile treat that pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is a delightful choice, as the cold sweetness complements the warm bread perfectly.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 1
Calories 291 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls

Ingredients
  

  • 4 ripe medium bananas mashed
  • 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar packed lightly
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 2 large eggs whisked lightly
  • 1/4 cup buttermilk or substitute with sour cream or yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts, if preferred
  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions
 

  • Gather all your ingredients and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
  • In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Some lumps are okay; they add character. You’ll need about 1 1/2 cups of mashed banana.
  • In another bowl, combine the white granulated and brown sugar. Pour in the melted butter and stir until well combined. The warmth of the butter helps soften the sugars, creating a great texture.
  • Add the mashed bananas to your sugar-butter mixture. Whisk in the eggs until fully blended, then add the buttermilk and vanilla extract. The mixture should appear creamy and inviting.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger), and salt to ensure even distribution.
  • Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir gently. Combine until just mixed; leaving some lumps will give the bread a delightful texture.
  • Gently fold in the toasted pecans (or walnuts) and shredded coconut, ensuring they’re evenly incorporated.
  • Transfer your batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top—no need for perfection, as it will bake beautifully.
  • Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Avoid opening the oven door for the first 50 minutes, as this may cause the bread to sink.
  • Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

  • Use Very Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the bread. Look for those with brown spots or even mushy texture.
  • Chop Nuts Coarsely: Larger pieces offer better texture and enjoyable crunch.
  • Add Stir-In Options: Consider adding chocolate chips, dried fruits, or a swirl of peanut butter—just be sure these additions don’t significantly alter the wet-to-dry ratio.
  • Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to avoid developing gluten, which can lead to a tough loaf.
  • Consider Serving Warm: Enjoying the bread warm is a game-changer. Microwave a slice for a few seconds if it cools down too much.

Nutrition

Calories: 291kcal
Keyword barefoot contessa banana bread recipe
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