If you’re ready to elevate your banana bread game, this Maple Pecan Banana Bread Recipe is about to become your new favorite treat. Imagine the warmth of cinnamon and the rich sweetness of maple syrup intertwined with perfectly ripe bananas and the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans in every bite. Whether it’s breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or a dessert that impresses at holiday gatherings, this bread strikes that perfect balance of moist, flavorful, and heartwarming goodness that feels like a hug in bread form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Maple Pecan Banana Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to this delightful baking adventure. Each item is chosen not just for flavor but for contributing to the wonderful texture and inviting aroma that make this loaf such a crowd-pleaser.

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the bread structure and a tender crumb.
1 tsp baking soda: Helps the bread rise beautifully and keeps it light.
½ tsp baking powder: Works alongside baking soda for that perfect lift.
½ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, inviting spice note throughout the loaf.
3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 ½ cups): The star of the show, providing moisture, sweetness, and rich banana flavor.
½ cup pure maple syrup: For deep, natural sweetness with that unmistakable maple warmth.
½ cup brown sugar, packed: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel richness.
⅓ cup melted butter (or coconut oil): Brings moisture and a touch of savory richness.
2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add to the bread’s tender texture.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the sweet notes and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
½ cup chopped pecans (plus more for topping): Provide irresistible crunch and a nutty contrast to the soft bread.

How to Make Maple Pecan Banana Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

First things first, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This prep ensures your beautiful bread comes out clean and ready to impress.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together your flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This mixture builds the spice-infused base that will carry your bread’s flavor seamlessly.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, blend the mashed bananas with maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and luscious. This wet mixture is where the magic starts to happen, infusing sweetness and moisture that will keep your bread wonderfully soft.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gently fold the dry ingredients into your wet mix. Take care not to overmix – you want everything just combined to keep the bread tender and light. Then, stir in the chopped pecans for a delightful crunch in every bite.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle extra chopped pecans on top for that irresistible nutty topping. Slide it into the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, revealing a perfectly baked crumb inside.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Let your Maple Pecan Banana Bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the bread set perfectly, making slicing easy and the texture just right.

How to Serve Maple Pecan Banana Bread Recipe

The image shows a loaf of brown bread with a slightly rough, cracked top sprinkled with pecan pieces. Next to it are three thick slices showing a dense texture with visible nuts and dried fruits inside. The bread is placed on white parchment paper on a white marbled surface. There is a knife with some crumbs near the top right corner and a small white bowl filled with pecans to the left. Yellow flowers are on the lower left corner of the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Bring out the best in every slice with a simple pat of butter that melts into the loaf’s warm crumb. Or for an extra-special touch, drizzle some warm maple syrup over the top just before serving for that sweet, glossy finish that complements the pecans beautifully.

Side Dishes

This loaf pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or your favorite tea. For a more substantial breakfast, serve alongside creamy Greek yogurt or a fresh fruit salad. These pairings balance the rich sweetness of the bread for a well-rounded morning treat or snack.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your Maple Pecan Banana Bread thick and toast lightly, then spread with cream cheese and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a decadent twist. Or turn it into a dessert by layering slices with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of maple syrup. Your friends and family will be amazed at how versatile this bread can be!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your banana bread fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To extend its life, refrigeration is a perfect option, keeping it moist and delicious for up to a week.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this treat later, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, freezing for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before slicing and serving for a quick, ready-made delight.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked freshness, reheat slices in a toaster oven or microwave. A quick 20-30 seconds in the microwave or a few minutes in the toaster oven will warm it through, melting any butter or syrup you add on top beautifully.

FAQs

Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work well as alternatives, offering different but equally delightful textures and flavors that complement the banana bread.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

You can make this banana bread vegan by swapping the butter for coconut oil, using flax eggs instead of regular eggs, and ensuring your maple syrup is pure to keep things plant-based.

What if I don’t have maple syrup on hand?

While maple syrup gives this bread its signature flavor, you can substitute it with honey or molasses. Just keep in mind these will alter the flavor profile slightly.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The best test is inserting a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your bread is done baking perfectly.

Can I add other mix-ins to this recipe?

Definitely! Dried cranberries, chocolate chips, or even shredded coconut would be delicious additions. Just add about ½ cup along with the pecans to keep the balance right.

Final Thoughts

Making this Maple Pecan Banana Bread Recipe is like crafting a little loaf of comfort that fills your kitchen with the most heartwarming aromas and offers a mouthwatering treat any time of day. Once you try it, you’ll see why it quickly becomes a beloved staple in your baking repertoire. So gather those bananas, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of sweet, nutty happiness that never fails to bring a smile.