Bourbon Banana Walnut Bread: A Perfect Blend of Sweet and Smoky Flavors

This Bourbon Banana Walnut Bread is a moist, tender, and flavorful quick bread that takes banana bread to the next level. The rich, sweet flavor of ripe bananas pairs beautifully with coarsely chopped walnuts for a satisfying crunch. A splash of bourbon adds a smoky depth that complements the sweetness, making this loaf a perfect treat for special breakfasts or brunches. It's an ideal way to use up overripe bananas while elevating your baking with a unique twist. You can enjoy it fresh out of the oven or as a delightful breakfast the next day.

Ingredients

• 1 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour
  
  

• ¾ teaspoon fine-grain salt
  
  

• ½ teaspoon baking soda
  
  

• ¼ teaspoon baking powder
  
  

• 5 ⅓ tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  
  

• ⅔ cup sugar
  
  

• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  
  

• 2 very ripe bananas, mashed
  
  

• ½ cup coarsely chopped walnuts
  
  

• 1 tablespoon bourbon
  
  

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Position a rack in the lower third of the oven and butter a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Set aside.
   
   

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
   
   

3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using a sturdy fork or an electric mixer until lightened in color and texture.
   
   

4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until well combined and the consistency is similar to brown sugar.
   
   

5. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is well combined before adding the next.
   
   

6. Gently fold in the mashed bananas, walnuts, and bourbon, ensuring all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
   
   

7. Scrape the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.
   
   

8. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   
   

9. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before removing it from the pan to cool completely on a wire rack.
   
   

Nutritional Value (per serving)

• Calories: 302 kcal
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 40g
  
  

• Protein: 5g
  
  

• Fat: 14g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 6g
  
  

• Cholesterol: 61mg
  
  

• Sodium: 304mg
  
  

• Potassium: 191mg
  
  

• Fiber: 2g
  
  

• Sugar: 21g
  
  

• Vitamin A: 313 IU
  
  

• Vitamin C: 3mg
  
  

• Calcium: 26mg
  
  

• Iron: 1mg