If you’ve been searching for a delightful twist on classic banana bread, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Easy Cranberry Banana Nut Bread Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of sweet ripe bananas, tart dried cranberries, and crunchy nuts baked into a moist, comforting loaf. Whether you need a cozy breakfast treat or a snack to brighten your day, this recipe combines simple ingredients into a wonderfully flavorful bread that’s as inviting as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this bread are straightforward but thoughtfully chosen to create an amazing balance of tastes and textures. Each one plays a special role in delivering that perfect slice, from moistening the crumb to popping with unexpected bursts of cranberry goodness.
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed: Use really ripe bananas for natural sweetness and a tender crumb.
- 2 large eggs: These help bind everything together and add richness.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Provides just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like flavor and moistness.
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted butter: Keeps the bread soft and tender with a subtle richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, fragrant note.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the structure of the bread for a satisfying slice.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Leavens the bread, helping it rise and stay light.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and deepens flavor complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds a cozy spice that complements both banana and cranberry.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans: Offers a wonderful crunch and nutty aroma.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries: Pops of tartness that give the bread personality and vibrancy.
How to Make Easy Cranberry Banana Nut Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan well to ensure your bread doesn’t stick. Taking this simple step now means a flawless release after baking and perfect slices every time.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. This rich, fragrant base sets the stage for a moist and flavorful bread.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients Separately
In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This ensures the leavening agent and spices are evenly distributed, so every bite has consistent flavor and the bread rises perfectly.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Ingredients Together
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix here—gentle folding keeps the bread tender rather than tough, so your Easy Cranberry Banana Nut Bread Recipe has the ideal texture.
Step 5: Fold in Nuts and Cranberries
Gently fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans and dried cranberries. These add delightful crunch and bursts of tartness that make this bread truly stand out. If you want to prevent cranberries from sinking, toss them in a little flour first.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Set
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This resting period helps the flavors to develop fully.
How to Serve Easy Cranberry Banana Nut Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a simple drizzle of honey enhances the sweetness and presentation of this bread without overshadowing its natural flavors. For extra indulgence, spread on some cream cheese or butter while the slices are still slightly warm.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it the perfect companion for breakfast or afternoon snack time. Serve alongside fresh fruit or yogurt to round out a balanced and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the bread thick and toast it lightly for a crunchy exterior that complements the soft inside. You can also turn this bread into mini loaf muffins by adjusting the baking time and sharing the joy in smaller portions, perfect for kids or parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature. Your homemade Easy Cranberry Banana Nut Bread Recipe will stay moist and tasty for up to 3 days—ideal for quick grab-and-go snacks.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this bread long after baking day, freeze the whole loaf or individual slices. Wrap them well in foil and place inside a freezer bag—this keeps the bread fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
To bring your frozen or leftover slices back to life, warm them in a toaster oven or regular oven at low heat for a few minutes. This refreshes the texture and elevates the flavors, making every slice taste freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried ones?
Absolutely! Fresh cranberries add a brighter tartness. Just toss them in a bit of flour before mixing into the batter to stop them from sinking to the bottom.
What can I substitute for vegetable oil?
Butter works wonderfully here and adds a richer flavor. Melt it before mixing, and use the same amount as the oil called for in the recipe.
How ripe should the bananas be for the best flavor?
Bananas with plenty of brown spots are ideal since they’re sweeter and softer, helping create a moist and flavorful bread.
Is it okay to leave out nuts if someone is allergic?
You can leave out the nuts without trouble—your bread will still be delicious and moist. To add texture, consider substituting with sunflower seeds or leaving them out completely.
Can I add a glaze or topping to this bread?
Definitely! A simple lemon or vanilla glaze, or even a streusel topping before baking, makes this bread extra special and adds an indulgent finishing touch.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Easy Cranberry Banana Nut Bread Recipe a try because it brings such a cozy, lovely spark to banana bread classics. It’s straightforward to make, filled with bright and comforting flavors, and perfect any time you want a little homemade happiness. Baking this bread feels like a warm hug in loaf form—enjoy every bite!
Print
Easy Cranberry Banana Nut Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8–10 slices)
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Cranberry Banana Nut Bread is a moist, flavorful loaf perfect for breakfast or a snack. Made with ripe bananas, tart dried cranberries, and crunchy nuts, this quick bread combines sweet and tangy flavors with a tender crumb. Simple to prepare and baked to golden perfection, it’s a delightful treat that’s perfect for holiday mornings or anytime you crave a comforting homemade bread.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon to ensure even distribution of dry components.
- Mix wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently just until combined to avoid overmixing which can make the bread tough.
- Fold in nuts and cranberries: Carefully fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans and dried cranberries, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour batter and bake: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the bread is cooked through.
- Cool the bread: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to set, then remove it from the pan and place on a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This helps maintain its texture and prevents crumbling.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh cranberries for dried; if using fresh, toss them in a little flour before adding to the batter to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
- For added sweetness and texture, consider topping the batter with a streusel or a glaze drizzle before baking.
- This banana bread freezes very well; wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
