This Nutella Swirl Banana Bread is a deliciously indulgent treat that combines the sweet, moist texture of banana bread with the rich, creamy flavor of Nutella. The swirls of Nutella add a chocolatey touch to each slice, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Whether you’re looking for a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack, this banana bread is sure to satisfy your cravings. It’s incredibly easy to make and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a great way to use up overripe bananas, making it both practical and tasty!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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3 ripe bananas
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1/2 cup brown sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/4 cup sour cream
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1/2 cup Nutella (or hazelnut spread)
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
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In a medium bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Set aside.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
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In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
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Gently fold in the mashed bananas until incorporated.
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Spoon half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, then add a few tablespoons of Nutella. Swirl with a knife.
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Add the remaining batter on top and swirl in more Nutella.
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Bake for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 65 minutes | Total Time: 75 minutes Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 8 slices
Why Nutella and Banana Make the Perfect Pair
At first glance, bananas and Nutella may seem like an unusual pairing, but once you take a bite, you’ll quickly realize that they complement each other perfectly. Bananas bring natural sweetness and moisture to the bread, while Nutella adds a rich, chocolatey depth that pairs beautifully with the soft, fragrant banana flavor. This harmonious blend of flavors and textures makes Nutella Swirl Banana Bread a unique and irresistible treat.
Nutella is a creamy spread made from hazelnuts, cocoa, and sugar, giving it a deliciously nutty and chocolatey taste. When swirled into the banana bread, it creates pockets of melted chocolate that are a delightful contrast to the soft and tender banana-infused bread. The combination of the two not only adds extra flavor but also gives the bread a visually appealing marbled effect.
A Quick and Easy Recipe for Busy Bakers
One of the best aspects of Nutella Swirl Banana Bread is how easy it is to make. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe requires just a few basic ingredients and can be made in under 90 minutes. The simplicity of banana bread, paired with the ease of adding Nutella, makes this recipe a great choice for both novice and experienced bakers. It’s the perfect option for when you want a homemade treat without spending too much time in the kitchen.
The process involves combining the wet ingredients—such as mashed bananas, eggs, and butter—along with the dry ingredients like flour and baking powder. Then, you gently fold in Nutella to create beautiful swirls throughout the batter before baking. The end result is a moist, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert.
Serving Ideas for Nutella Swirl Banana Bread
Once your Nutella Swirl Banana Bread is ready, you’ll find that it’s incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. It can be enjoyed on its own as a sweet snack, or you can serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
For breakfast, this banana bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or a tall glass of milk. If you’re hosting a brunch, it makes for a fantastic addition to your spread, adding a touch of sweetness that will be loved by all ages. You can even slice it up and toast it lightly, spreading a little extra Nutella on top for a decadent treat that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Nutella Swirl Banana Bread as a Gift
This banana bread also makes for an excellent gift. Whether it’s for a birthday, a holiday, or just a thoughtful gesture, a loaf of Nutella Swirl Banana Bread wrapped in parchment paper and tied with a ribbon will bring a smile to anyone’s face. Its homey aroma and the allure of Nutella make it a gift that feels both personal and indulgent. If you want to go the extra mile, consider making mini loaves of banana bread to give to friends and family as a delightful treat that’s both charming and delicious.
How to Make Nutella Swirl Banana Bread Your Own
One of the best things about Nutella Swirl Banana Bread is that it’s incredibly customizable. If you’re looking to make the recipe a little healthier, you can substitute whole wheat flour for the all-purpose flour to add fiber and nutrients. For those who want to make it dairy-free, simply swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter. You can also add in extra mix-ins such as chopped walnuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to give the bread a little extra texture and flavor.
If you’re not a fan of Nutella or want to try something different, feel free to experiment with other spreads. A peanut butter swirl, for example, would create a nutty contrast to the bananas and still provide that delicious, creamy texture. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract to enhance the overall flavor profile.
Troubleshooting Tips for Perfect Banana Bread
While Nutella Swirl Banana Bread is relatively easy to make, there are a few common issues that bakers might run into. Here are some tips to ensure your bread turns out perfectly every time:
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Overmixing the Batter – When incorporating the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can cause the bread to become dense or tough. Mix until the ingredients are just combined, and then stop.
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Overripe Bananas – The more overripe the bananas, the better. Overripe bananas have a deeper flavor and more moisture, which contributes to a soft and tender loaf. Look for bananas that have plenty of brown spots but are not completely mushy.
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Don’t Overbake – One of the most common mistakes when baking banana bread is leaving it in the oven for too long. Check the bread around the 60-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your banana bread is done. If you overbake, the bread may turn dry.
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Cooling – Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps prevent the bread from breaking apart and gives it time to firm up.
Conclusion: A Must-Try for Banana Bread Lovers
Nutella Swirl Banana Bread is a delicious twist on a classic favorite, offering a perfect balance of sweet bananas and creamy chocolate hazelnut spread. Whether you’re looking for a quick treat to bake at home or a delightful gift for someone special, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. With its easy preparation, customizable options, and decadent flavor, Nutella Swirl Banana Bread will become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Next time you have overripe bananas sitting on your counter, make sure to reach for that jar of Nutella and treat yourself to this irresistible, swirled banana bread. It’s a simple yet luxurious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.