Banana Nut Bread from Bob Evans features moist, ripe bananas and crunchy walnuts baked into a golden-brown loaf, delivering a sweet, nutty flavor with a soft, tender crumb.
Equipments
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Loaf pan
- Cooling rack
- Oven
- Knife (for chopping walnuts and slicing bread)
- Toothpick (for testing doneness)
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 4 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3/4 cup chopped walnuts
Make sure to use very ripe bananas, as their natural sweetness and moisture are essential to achieving the soft, tender crumb characteristic of Banana Nut Bread from Bob Evans. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt levels more precisely, balancing the sweetness of the granulated sugar and the slight tang of the sour cream. Chopping the walnuts to a medium size ensures you get a satisfying crunch without overwhelming the texture of the bread. It's important to measure your ingredients accurately with proper measuring cups and spoons to maintain the right consistency. Your Banana Nut Bread from Bob Evans copycat will deliver a distinctly sweet, nutty flavor with a golden-brown crust when you follow these ingredient suggestions carefully.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a loaf pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs, one at a time.
- Mix in mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
- Stir in sour cream until combined.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture; mix until just combined.
- Fold in chopped walnuts gently.
- Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in pan for 10 minutes.
- Remove loaf from pan and cool completely on a wire rack.
- Slice and serve.
Substitution
Banana Nut Bread from Bob Evans copycat menu replicates the signature moist texture and nutty sweetness using ripe bananas and crunchy walnuts. You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or buttermilk to maintain moisture while altering tanginess slightly. If walnuts are unavailable or preferred, pecans or almonds serve as excellent nut alternatives without compromising texture. Overripe bananas with dark spots provide the best natural sweetness and moisture for the batter. Testing doneness with a toothpick inserted in the loaf ensures your bread is perfectly baked without undercooking.
Tips
Ensure your bananas are very ripe, as their natural sweetness and moisture are key to a moist, flavorful banana nut bread. Avoid overmixing when combining dry ingredients with wet; this helps maintain a tender crumb by preventing gluten overdevelopment. Use a toothpick to check doneness--insert it into the center and look for it to come out clean, indicating the loaf is fully baked. Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack to prevent sogginess and to make slicing easier.
Nutritions
Banana Nut Bread from Bob Evans provides a good source of dietary fiber and natural potassium from ripe bananas, supporting your heart and digestive health. The walnuts add healthy omega-3 fatty acids and protein, contributing to brain function and muscle repair. While the recipe contains added sugar and butter, it also delivers essential nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin B6, and magnesium. Enjoying a moderate portion can fit into a balanced diet, offering both energy and nutritional benefits.
Storage
Store your Banana Nut Bread in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it moist and fresh for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze it for up to three months. Thaw frozen bread at room temperature before slicing to maintain its soft crumb and nutty flavor.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the chopped walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different crunchy texture and flavor profile. Replacing sour cream with Greek yogurt will add moisture and a subtle tang while boosting protein content. For a healthier twist, try using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, which increases fiber and nutrients. Enhancing the bread's sweetness with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg before baking introduces warm, aromatic notes.
Allergies
Banana Nut Bread from Bob Evans contains walnuts, a common allergen that can cause severe reactions in individuals with tree nut allergies. The bread also includes eggs and dairy ingredients like butter and sour cream, which may trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. If you have allergies to nuts, eggs, or dairy, carefully check the ingredients to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
Bob Evans' Banana Nut Bread menu item captivates customers with its moist texture, rich banana flavor, and generous nutty crunch, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and heartiness. The use of fresh, high-quality ingredients ensures each slice delivers a comforting, homemade taste that stands out among traditional baked goods. Many appreciate the nostalgic appeal combined with a unique twist that makes it both a breakfast favorite and a satisfying snack. You can recreate this beloved treat at home to enjoy the same delightful flavors without the wait or cost of dining out.