There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting smell of freshly baked bread wafting through your home, especially when it’s Nutella banana bread. Picture this: you pop open the oven to reveal a beautifully golden loaf, its sweet aroma mingling with the rich scent of chocolate hazelnut bliss. This recipe originated on a day when I desperately needed a pick-me-up, and the combination of ripe bananas and Nutella transformed an ordinary baking session into an irresistible adventure.
As the buttery, moist bread cools, these delightful swirls of creamy Nutella create a delicious surprise in every bite, making it perfect for breakfast or a sweet afternoon treat. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up! Whether you’re looking for a cozy weekend project or a crowd-pleasing dessert, this Nutella banana bread will charm your tastebuds and leave everyone asking for seconds. Grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into this decadent comfort food that will make your heart—and your kitchen—oh-so-happy!
Why is Nutella Banana Bread a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The rich Nutella swirls elevate the traditional banana bread to a whole new level of indulgence.
Easy to Make: This recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels, requiring minimal prep time and just a few ingredients.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert—this banana bread fits every occasion effortlessly!
Comforting Aroma: Your kitchen will be filled with an inviting smell that brings back sweet memories of home baking.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream, and watch it disappear—everyone loves a delightful slice of this sweet treat!
Nutella Banana Bread Ingredients
• This easy Nutella banana bread is packed with simple ingredients you’ll love!
For the Batter
- All-purpose flour – Provides the necessary structure; substitute with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
- Baking soda – A key leavening agent; make sure it’s fresh for the best rise.
- Kosher salt – Enhances the overall flavor; feel free to use sea salt if you prefer.
- Unsalted butter (melted) – Adds decadence and moisture; can be swapped with vegetable oil for a dairy-free alternative.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the bread and contributes to its delightful texture; consider using brown sugar for added rich flavor.
- Large egg plus 1 egg yolk – Binds everything together and adds extra richness; replace both with a flax egg for a vegan version.
- Sour cream – Incorporates moisture and a subtle tang; Greek yogurt serves as a great substitute.
- Vanilla extract – Elevates the flavor nicely; choose pure extract for the best results.
- Ripe bananas (mashed) – The star of the show, providing natural sweetness; choose extremely ripe bananas for maximum flavor impact.
- Nutella (melted slightly) – Infuses the bread with a wonderful chocolate flavor; interchange with any chocolate hazelnut spread or omit for simple banana bread.
Optional Toppings or Mix-ins
- Chopped walnuts – Adds a satisfying crunch; feel free to sprinkle in for a delightful texture twist.
- Chocolate chips – For those chocolate lovers, add them for an extra indulgent experience.
- Cinnamon – A sprinkle adds warmth and a lovely aroma; perfect for a cozy touch!
How to Make Nutella Banana Bread
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan. This step ensures the bread bakes evenly and comes out easily when it’s done.
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Combine the dry ingredients. In a bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and kosher salt until well mixed. This will create the base for your batter.
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Mix the wet ingredients. In another bowl, combine melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar, stirring until smooth. Incorporate large eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is creamy and uniform.
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Fold in the bananas. Gently mix in the mashed ripe bananas, ensuring they’re well-distributed before adding the dry ingredients. Gradually fold until just combined—remember, no overmixing here!
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Layer the batter. Pour half of the banana batter into your prepared pan. Then, drizzle half of the melted Nutella over this batter. Pour the remaining batter on top and swirl in the rest of the Nutella to create beautiful, marbled patterns.
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Bake for 50-60 minutes. Keep an eye on your oven, and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick—it should come out clean when the bread is ready.
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Cool in the pan for 10 minutes. After baking, let the bread rest before transferring it to a wire rack, allowing it to cool completely and develop its flavors.
Optional: Serve warm with a pat of butter for a melt-in-your-mouth experience!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Nutella Banana Bread are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mash the ripe bananas and combine the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, and salt) up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain the quality of the recipe, be sure to keep the mashed bananas covered to prevent browning. When you’re ready to bake, simply mix the wet ingredients (butter, sugar, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla) and fold in the prepped bananas and dry mix. Pour in your batter and layer with Nutella, then bake as directed for a delicious treat with minimal effort! Enjoy your warm slice on a busy morning or as a sweet afternoon snack!
Nutella Banana Bread Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these delightful variations!
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Nut-Free: Substitute Nutella with sunflower seed spread to enjoy a delicious nut-free treat. It still delivers a great taste with a similar texture!
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Vegan Delight: Replace eggs with a flax egg and use coconut oil instead of butter for a completely plant-based version that everyone will love.
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Choco-Mint Twist: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the batter for a refreshing minty chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with Nutella.
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Spiced Up: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic touch that elevates the comforting essence of the bread.
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Fruit Fusion: Toss in a cup of fresh berries, like raspberries or blueberries, to add bursts of fruity tanginess that complements the sweet banana and Nutella beautifully.
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Oatmeal Boost: Mix in half a cup of rolled oats for a hearty texture that adds a wholesome twist while boosting fiber content.
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Double Chocolate: Add a cup of chocolate chips to the batter for an extra indulgent chocolate experience with each delicious bite!
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Caramel Surprise: Drizzle in some caramel sauce alongside the Nutella for a decadent layer of flavor that creates a luscious surprise in every slice.
How to Store and Freeze Nutella Banana Bread
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Room Temperature: Keep the Nutella banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will maintain its moist texture and rich flavor.
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Fridge: If you want to extend its shelf life, store the bread in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent it from drying out.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bread by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months for future indulgence.
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Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let the bread thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds or toast lightly for that fresh-from-the-oven experience!
What to Serve with Nutella Banana Bread?
There’s nothing quite like complementing the sweet, moist allure of banana bread with delightful sides and treats.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of airy whipped cream adds a light and fluffy element that perfectly balances the rich flavors of Nutella.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries bring a burst of freshness, cutting through the sweetness and adding a fruity contrast.
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Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream melts beautifully atop warm slices, creating an irresistible dessert experience that feels indulgent and luxurious.
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Coffee or Latte: Enjoy a warm cup of coffee or a frothy latte alongside your slice, enhancing the cozy, comforting vibes of this delightful treat.
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Honey or Maple Syrup: Drizzling a little honey or maple syrup brings a gentle sweetness and a sticky texture that pairs wonderfully with the bread’s flavors.
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Nutella Spread: For the ultimate chocolate-hazelnut indulgence, serve a side of Nutella for those who can’t get enough rich chocolate flavor!
Pairing your Nutella banana bread with these delicious options promises a meal that feels complete, satisfying, and oh-so-lovely!
Expert Tips for Nutella Banana Bread
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Use Ripe Bananas: Make sure your bananas are very ripe; they provide the best natural sweetness and moisture for the Nutella banana bread.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mixing the batter just until combined will ensure a tender crumb. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, which we want to avoid.
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Check Baking Time: If you’re using a glass loaf pan, reduce the baking time slightly, as it tends to cook faster than metal pans.
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Try Different Mix-ins: For added flavor and crunch, consider folding in chopped walnuts or chocolate chips into the batter—extra delicious!
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Store Correctly: Keep the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Nutella Banana Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best bananas for Nutella banana bread?
Absolutely! The best bananas for this recipe are those that are very ripe; they should be mostly brown with plenty of dark spots. These extremely ripe bananas will provide the maximum natural sweetness and moisture for your Nutella banana bread, ensuring a soft and flavorful loaf.
How should I store Nutella banana bread?
Store your Nutella banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it moist. If you want to extend its freshness, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, just make sure it’s wrapped well to prevent it from drying out.
Can I freeze Nutella banana bread?
Yes, you can! To freeze your banana bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This method protects it from freezer burn and helps maintain its delicious flavor. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight or leave it at room temperature for a few hours before slicing.
What should I do if my banana bread is too dense?
If you find your banana bread is too dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. Always mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined; it’s okay if there are a few lumps. Another tip is to ensure your baking soda is fresh, as this is crucial for proper rising.
Are there any dietary considerations for Nutella banana bread?
Absolutely! For those with dietary restrictions, you can make this Nutella banana bread vegan by substituting the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, rested for 5 minutes) and using dairy-free ingredients like vegetable oil instead of butter and coconut yogurt instead of sour cream. Always check the Nutella jar, as some brands may contain allergens like nuts or gluten.
What are some delicious mix-ins I can add to my banana bread?
The more the merrier! Consider adding chopped walnuts, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of peanut butter for extra flavor and texture. You could also sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a warm, cozy spice that goes wonderfully with the rich Nutella flavor.
Nutella Banana Bread Bliss: Easy, Moist, and Irresistible
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- Combine the dry ingredients: whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Mix the wet ingredients: combine melted butter and sugar, then add eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract.
- Fold in the bananas: mix in the mashed bananas until well-distributed.
- Layer the batter: pour half the batter into the pan, drizzle half the Nutella, then top with remaining batter and swirl in the rest of the Nutella.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes; check for doneness with a toothpick.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.