Banana Maple Pecan Loaf

Name: Banana Maple Pecan Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup maple syrup; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Highlighted under: Sweet Dessert Recipes

A delightful blend of ripe bananas, maple syrup, and crunchy pecans, this Banana Maple Pecan Loaf is the perfect treat for breakfast or a sweet snack.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-03T14:30:30.907Z

This Banana Maple Pecan Loaf combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich flavor of maple syrup and the crunch of pecans, making it a perfect indulgence for any time of day.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Moist and flavorful, thanks to ripe bananas and maple syrup
Crunchy pecans add a delightful texture
Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack

      

The Benefits of Bananas in Baking

Bananas are not just a delicious fruit; they also serve as a natural sweetener in baking. Their natural sugars can reduce the need for added sugars, making your baked goods healthier. When bananas are ripe, they become sweeter and softer, which contributes to moisture and flavor in recipes like our Banana Maple Pecan Loaf.

In addition to sweetness, bananas bring a wealth of nutrients to your baked goods. They are rich in potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, all of which can enhance your overall health. Incorporating bananas into your baking not only provides flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile of your treats.

Why Maple Syrup is a Perfect Sweetener

Maple syrup is a fantastic alternative to refined sugars, offering a unique flavor profile that pairs beautifully with bananas. It has a lower glycemic index compared to regular sugar, which means it can provide a more stable energy release without the sudden spikes in blood sugar levels.

Moreover, maple syrup contains antioxidants and essential minerals such as manganese and zinc. This makes it not only a flavorful addition to your Banana Maple Pecan Loaf but also a healthier choice. Using maple syrup in your baking can elevate your recipes while keeping them wholesome.

Pecans: The Crunchy Delight

Pecans are more than just a delicious nut; they add a satisfying crunch to your Banana Maple Pecan Loaf. Their rich, buttery flavor complements the sweetness of bananas and maple syrup, creating a delightful contrast in texture and taste.

In addition to their delicious flavor, pecans are packed with healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. They are an excellent source of antioxidants and can contribute to heart health. Adding pecans not only enhances the taste of your loaf but also boosts its nutritional value, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Banana Maple Pecan Loaf.

Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup chopped pecans

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you can start baking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your Banana Maple Pecan Loaf.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the mashed bananas, maple syrup, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, and flour.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped pecans.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Your Banana Maple Pecan Loaf is now ready to be enjoyed!

Tips for Perfecting Your Loaf

To ensure your Banana Maple Pecan Loaf turns out perfectly every time, make sure your bananas are very ripe. The more speckled and brown they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Don't hesitate to use overripe bananas that you might otherwise throw away, as they are ideal for baking.

Mix your ingredients gently to avoid overworking the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf instead of the light and fluffy texture you desire. Just mix until the dry ingredients are incorporated, and then fold in the pecans for a perfect bake.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your loaf is baked and cooled, you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and freezing it. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it in the oven for a delightful treat.

Serve your Banana Maple Pecan Loaf as a breakfast option topped with a smear of butter or cream cheese. It also makes an excellent afternoon snack paired with a cup of tea or coffee. For a special touch, try drizzling some extra maple syrup on top before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, frozen bananas work great! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I substitute the maple syrup?

You can use honey or agave syrup as a substitute, but the flavor will change slightly.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.