If you are craving a comforting treat that feels like a warm hug from the inside, you simply must try this Moist Banana Bread with Walnuts and Raisins Recipe. Bursting with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, the crunch of toasted walnuts, and the chewy surprise of plump raisins, this bread is not only irresistibly moist but also loaded with textures that satisfy with every bite. Whether you’re looking for the perfect breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or something special to share with friends, this recipe combines simple ingredients in a way that delivers unforgettable flavor and tenderness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Three slices of nut bread are stacked overlapping on a white plate. Each slice shows a golden-brown crust with a soft inside filled with multiple visible pieces of chopped nuts, creating a speckled texture across light beige bread. The bread texture looks moist and dense, and the edges are darker and slightly crisp. The plate sits on a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of each ingredient. Every element plays a crucial role, from the ripe bananas that provide natural moisture and sweetness to the toasted walnuts adding a delightful crunch and the juicy raisins enhancing the complexity of flavor and color.

3 very ripe bananas (medium/large): The riper, the better for sweetness and moisture.
½ cup unsalted butter (8 Tbsp), at room temperature: Softens the bread and adds richness without overpowering flavor.
¾ cup granulated sugar: Balances the natural banana sweetness for perfect taste.
2 large eggs, lightly beaten: Binds ingredients and helps create a tender crumb.
½ tsp vanilla extract: Adds a lovely warm aroma and depth of flavor.
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the bread’s structure.
1 tsp baking soda: Ensures the bread rises just right for a fluffy texture.
½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors in the bread.
1 cup walnuts, lightly roasted and coarsely chopped: Gives the bread crunch and a toasty flavor boost.
½ cup raisins: Brings a chewy sweetness that complements the bananas perfectly.

How to Make Moist Banana Bread with Walnuts and Raisins Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a bread loaf pan by greasing and lightly flouring it. This simple prep step ensures your beautiful banana bread will slide right out after baking, keeping that lovely crust intact.

Step 2: Toast the Walnuts

On medium heat, toast your walnuts in a dry skillet, stirring continuously to prevent burning. This unlocks their deep, nutty flavor and adds a satisfying crunch, which makes every bite of this Moist Banana Bread with Walnuts and Raisins Recipe so much better.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the texture becomes smooth and fluffy. This step is crucial for a light, tender bread that melts in your mouth.

Step 4: Mash Bananas and Add Eggs

Use a fork to mash the ripe bananas until they resemble chunky applesauce. Then, gently stir in the bananas and lightly beaten eggs to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, blending everything into one harmonious wet mix.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl to ensure the baking soda is evenly distributed. This step keeps your Moist Banana Bread with Walnuts and Raisins Recipe rising evenly and tasting perfectly balanced.

Step 6: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Add the dry mix gradually to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing—this is the secret to keeping the bread tender rather than tough.

Step 7: Add Flavor and Mix-ins

Fold in the vanilla extract alongside your cooled toasted walnuts and raisins. This is the magic moment where the flavors and textures that define this bread come together beautifully.

Step 8: Pour Batter and Bake

Transfer the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top. Pop it in the oven for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean or with just a few moist crumbs—a sure sign your banana bread is perfectly baked.

Step 9: Cool the Bread

Once out of the oven, let your banana bread rest in the pan for 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This ensures each slice maintains that soft, moist crumb we all love so much.

How to Serve Moist Banana Bread with Walnuts and Raisins Recipe

Three ripe yellow bananas with brown spots lay at the bottom right on a white marbled surface. Two brown eggs are placed to the left of the bananas. Above the eggs sits a small white bowl filled with dark raisins, next to a slightly larger white bowl filled with walnuts. Above the walnuts, there is a small white bowl filled with white salt, and to the right of the walnuts, a larger white bowl filled with white flour. At the very top left, a white bowl holds three large pieces of pale yellow butter. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped walnuts or a few extra raisins on top of a slice for extra crunch and color. A light spread of salted butter or cream cheese also elevates the flavor, making the bread feel even more special.

Side Dishes

This banana bread pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai for breakfast. For a snack, enjoy it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or fresh fruit to add brightness and balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the bread thickly and toasting it lightly for a warm, crispy texture. You can even cut it into cubes for a fun bread pudding or skewer bites for a delightful party appetizer with cream cheese or mascarpone.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its softness and flavorful profile.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator or on the counter for a quick treat anytime.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a toaster oven or microwave for 15-20 seconds to bring back that freshly baked warmth. A touch of butter or honey on top makes it feel like you just pulled it from the oven.

FAQs

Can I substitute the walnuts for another nut?

Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts work wonderfully as alternatives and will bring their unique flavor and crunch to the bread.

What if I don’t have raisins? Can I leave them out?

You can leave out raisins if you prefer or swap them for other dried fruits like cranberries or chopped dates for a different twist on sweetness.

How ripe should the bananas be for best results?

For the most moist and flavorful banana bread, use bananas with dark brown spots or even fully brown skins. The riper they are, the sweeter and softer your bread will turn out.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by replacing the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix designed for bread, you can enjoy this delicious recipe while keeping it safe for gluten sensitivities.

Why is my banana bread sometimes dense or dry?

Overmixing the batter or using underripe bananas can cause dryness or density. Stick to the steps carefully, use very ripe bananas, and mix just until combined for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

This Moist Banana Bread with Walnuts and Raisins Recipe is a beloved classic I never tire of baking and sharing. It’s the perfect blend of sweet, nutty, and chewy textures wrapped up in a tender, moist loaf that feels wonderfully homemade. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort snack or breakfast treat!