Banana Cherry Nut Bread
A moist, flavorful banana cherry nut bread with chocolate chips and chopped nuts, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or any time you crave a sweet, fruity treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together the sugar, butter, and eggs.
- Stir in the mashed bananas and lemon juice.
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture and combine.
- Stir in the chopped nuts, maraschino cherries, and chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moister bread, ensure your bananas are very ripe, as they add natural sweetness and moisture. If you don't have maraschino cherries, you can substitute with dried cherries or cranberries. Consider using walnuts or pecans for the chopped nuts, depending on your preference. You can also reduce the sugar slightly for a less sweet bread, especially if your bananas are particularly ripe.
Serving Suggestions
This Banana Cherry Nut Bread is delicious on its own, but you can enhance it with a spread of butter or cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or an afternoon snack. For a delightful twist, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a side of fresh fruit. Explore more American recipes for a perfect brunch.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, slice and freeze pieces in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply toast slices or warm in the microwave for a few seconds until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Banana Cherry Nut Bread contains roughly 636 calories, with 14g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1226mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, frozen bananas work well in this recipe! Just thaw them before mashing and ensure to drain any excess liquid. They may even provide more moisture and sweetness, making your bread even tastier.
What can I substitute for butter?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with an equal amount of coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Applesauce can also replace some of the butter for a lighter version.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this Banana Cherry Nut Bread gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure the baking powder is also gluten-free to ensure the recipe remains safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).