If you’re seeking the perfect banana bread that’s moist, tender, and bursting with flavor, look no further than Martha Stewart’s Banana Bread. This easy recipe combines over-ripe bananas with crunchy walnuts and decadent chocolate chips, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced one, this recipe is straightforward and yields consistently delicious results.

Why Martha Stewart’s Banana Bread Stands Out

Martha Stewart is renowned for her culinary expertise, and her banana bread recipe exemplifies her commitment to quality and simplicity. What sets this banana bread apart is its balance of flavors and textures:

Moisture and Tenderness: The use of butter and sour cream ensures a moist crumb that’s incredibly tender.
Textural Contrast: Crunchy walnuts add a satisfying bite, while chocolate chips provide bursts of sweetness.
Rich Aroma: Over-ripe bananas infuse the bread with a heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen during baking.

This banana bread doesn’t rely on heavy spices like cinnamon, making it ideal for those who prefer a more straightforward flavor profile.

Martha Stewart's Banana Bread (Easy Recipe) Vertical Photo

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for achieving the perfect banana bread. Here’s what you’ll need:

Dry Ingredients

1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the bread.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent to help the bread rise.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances sweetness.

Wet Ingredients

1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture.
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread.
2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the bread’s structure.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
1/2 cup (120g) sour cream: Adds moisture and tenderness.

Flavor Add-Ins

1 cup (225g) very ripe bananas, mashed: The star ingredient, providing natural sweetness and moisture.
1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts or pecans: Adds crunch and a nutty flavor.
1/2 cup (90g) chocolate chips (optional): Introduces a rich, chocolaty element.

Optional Topping

1/4 cup (30g) extra chocolate chips or nuts: For sprinkling on top before baking, enhancing visual appeal and texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Martha Stewart’s Banana Bread is a simple process that yields impressive results. Follow these steps for a perfect loaf every time.

1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5x3-inch loaf pan using non-stick spray or butter to prevent the bread from sticking.

2. Combine Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

3. Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they’re fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract, enhancing the bread’s flavor profile.

4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense bread.

5. Mix in Bananas and Sour Cream

Gently fold in the mashed bananas and sour cream until the batter is smooth and well combined. The bananas not only add flavor but also contribute to the bread’s moist texture.

6. Add Nuts and Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans and chocolate chips (if using). These add-ins provide delightful texture and additional flavor, making each bite more exciting.

7. Transfer to Loaf Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. If you like, sprinkle additional chocolate chips or nuts on top for an attractive finish and extra crunch.

8. Bake to Perfection

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes. To ensure it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

9. Cool Before Serving

Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the bread set, making it easier to slice and enhancing its flavor.

10. Slice and Enjoy

Once cooled, slice the bread to your desired thickness. Serve it plain, with a spread of butter, or alongside a cup of your favorite beverage for a delightful treat.

Tips for the Best Banana Bread

Achieving banana bread perfection involves a few key tips:

Use Over-Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Dark, spotted bananas are ideal.
Properly Measure Flour: Too much flour can make the bread dense. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined to maintain a tender crumb.
Fresh Baking Soda: Ensure your baking soda is active by checking its expiration date or testing it with vinegar—it should fizz vigorously.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ingredients like butter and eggs should be at room temperature to blend more easily and create a smoother batter.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to customize your banana bread with these delicious variations:

1. Healthy Banana Bread

Adjustments:
Reduce granulated sugar to 3/4 cup.
Replace sour cream with plain Greek yogurt.
Omit chocolate chips for a less sweet option.
Benefits: Lower in sugar and higher in protein, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor.

2. Chocolate Banana Bread

Additions:
Increase chocolate chips to 1 cup.
Mix in cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a richer chocolate flavor.
Result: A double-dose chocolate experience that’s perfect for chocolate lovers.

3. Nut-Free Banana Bread

Adjustments:
Omit walnuts or pecans.
Add dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for texture.
Suitable For: Those with nut allergies or preferences against nuts.

4. Spiced Banana Bread

Additions:
Incorporate 1 teaspoon cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg into the dry ingredients.
Result: A warmly spiced loaf that’s perfect for autumn gatherings.

5. Vegan Banana Bread

Substitutions:
Replace butter with vegetable oil or coconut oil.
Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of regular eggs.
Substitute sour cream with dairy-free yogurt.
Benefits: Suitable for vegans or those avoiding dairy and eggs.

Storage and Shelf Life

To keep your banana bread fresh and delicious, proper storage is essential.

At Room Temperature

Method: Wrap the bread tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, or store it in an airtight container.
Duration: Keeps well for up to 4 days.

Refrigeration

Method: Store the wrapped bread in the refrigerator.
Duration: Lasts for up to 1 week.
Note: Refrigeration can extend shelf life but may slightly alter the texture, making it firmer.

Freezing

Method: Slice the bread and wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Duration: Maintains quality for up to 3 months.
Thawing: Transfer slices to the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Substitute Brown Sugar for Granulated Sugar?

Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with brown sugar in an equal ratio. Brown sugar will add a deeper, molasses-like flavor and keep the bread moist.

2. What If I Don’t Have Sour Cream?

If you don’t have sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt or add an extra banana to maintain moisture. Alternatively, use buttermilk for a similar tangy flavor.

3. How Do I Make the Bread Gluten-Free?

Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to help with the bread’s structure.

4. Can I Add Different Nuts or Seeds?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with almonds, pecans, sunflower seeds, or even chia seeds for added nutrition and texture.

5. Is It Necessary to Grease the Loaf Pan?

Yes, greasing the loaf pan prevents the bread from sticking, making it easier to remove once baked. For an extra layer of non-stick assurance, you can also line the pan with parchment paper.

Serving Suggestions

Martha Stewart’s Banana Bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

Breakfast Boost: Serve slices with a spread of butter or cream cheese for a hearty start to your day.
Afternoon Snack: Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a satisfying mid-day treat.
Dessert Delight: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with chocolate sauce for an indulgent dessert.
Creative Uses: Use the banana bread as a base for French toast or bread pudding for a delightful twist.

Martha Stewart’s Banana Bread is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Its moist texture, rich banana flavor, and delightful mix-ins make it a favorite for many. Whether you’re baking for the first time or looking to perfect your banana bread game, this easy recipe is sure to impress. So gather your over-ripe bananas, preheat your oven, and enjoy the comforting aroma and delicious taste of homemade banana bread.

Additional Resources

Martha Stewart’s Official Website: For more of Martha’s recipes and baking tips.
Baking Substitutions Guide: Explore various ingredient swaps to accommodate dietary preferences.
Banana Ripening Techniques: Learn how to speed up banana ripening for your next baking project.

Enjoy your baking journey!