Name: Maple Pecan Banana Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; ½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 ½ cups); ½ cup pure maple syrup; ½ cup brown sugar, packed; ⅓ cup melted butter (or coconut oil); 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ cup chopped pecans (plus more for topping)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’ve been hunting for the ultimate twist on banana bread, this Maple Pecan Banana Bread will instantly become your new obsession. Cozy, subtly sweet maple swirls through every bite, while crunchy pecans add texture that makes each slice a total treat. Whether you’re whipping it up for chilly mornings, afternoon coffee breaks, or to impress everyone at your next holiday brunch, this loaf is so easy to love and even easier to make. Grab those ripe bananas—let’s make something unforgettable together!

Maple Pecan Banana Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, familiar ingredients are transformed into a loaf that’s out-of-this-world delicious. Each one brings its own magic to Maple Pecan Banana Bread, creating the perfect symphony of flavor, moisture, and that gorgeous golden-brown top.

All-purpose flour: Gives the bread structure while keeping the crumb tender and light.
Baking soda: Essential for a beautiful rise and fluffiness.
Baking powder: Adds an extra touch of lift so your loaf isn’t too dense.
Salt: Balances and enhances both sweetness and maple notes.
Ground cinnamon: Infuses the loaf with a warm, cozy aroma and flavor.
Ripe bananas: The superstar for moisture and natural sweetness—use those deeply speckled ones for best results!
Pure maple syrup: Brings out that signature rich maple flavor you’ll crave in every bite.
Brown sugar: Adds depth and caramel notes, plus helps the bread stay extra moist.
Melted butter (or coconut oil): Makes the crumb luscious and rich; choose coconut oil for a subtle tropical twist.
Eggs: Bind everything together while contributing to the loaf’s structure.
Vanilla extract: Blends all the flavors and adds a lovely sweet finish.
Chopped pecans: Lend irresistible crunch and nutty flavor—plus, they look beautiful scattered on top.

How to Make Maple Pecan Banana Bread

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper if you like easy removal—this step guarantees your Maple Pecan Banana Bread comes out looking bakery-perfect, not stuck to the sides.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This ensures each bite is evenly spiced and perfectly risen. Break up any flour lumps now—much easier than chasing them in your batter later!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mash your ripe bananas until they’re mostly smooth—lumps are good! Add the maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter (or coconut oil), eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is gorgeously combined and smells like pure comfort.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Take care not to over-mix. Stop as soon as you don’t see dry flour. This step keeps your Maple Pecan Banana Bread soft, never tough.

Step 5: Add Pecans and Fill the Pan

Stir in your chopped pecans for that irresistible crunch. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, then sprinkle more pecans right on top for a show-stopping, bakery-style finish.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake the loaf for 55–65 minutes. Slide a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, you’re golden. Cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Let it cool fully for the perfect slice (if you can resist sneaking a warm piece!).

How to Serve Maple Pecan Banana Bread

Garnishes

A drizzle of warm maple syrup over each slice makes this loaf shine. For extra flair, dust with powdered sugar or add a small pat of salted butter on top while it’s still slightly warm—the flavors melt together for an even richer bite.

Side Dishes

Pair your Maple Pecan Banana Bread with hot coffee, chai tea, or even a glass of cold milk. For a brunch spread, add fresh fruit, yogurt, or a dollop of ricotta for a luxurious touch that highlights the bread’s sweetness and spice.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the loaf and toasting each piece until the edges are crispy, then spreading with maple cream cheese. Or, cut into cubes and use for a decadent bread pudding. This bread also makes a fantastic holiday gift—wrap cooled slices in parchment and tuck them into a basket for a cozy, homemade surprise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover Maple Pecan Banana Bread tightly in plastic or foil, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The flavors deepen with each passing day, making your after-dinner snack or morning coffee even more special.

Freezing

If you’re planning ahead or baked an extra loaf, you’re in luck. Let the bread cool completely, then wrap tightly in a double layer of plastic wrap followed by foil or a freezer bag. Frozen Maple Pecan Banana Bread will keep perfectly for three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm a slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or toast it gently in the oven. If you want to take it up a notch, pop a warm slice under the broiler for a minute with a touch of butter and maple syrup for caramelized edges and ultimate comfort.

FAQs

Can I substitute walnuts for pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts work just as well, though you’ll get a slightly different nutty flavor. For allergen-friendly options, try chopped pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds to keep the crunch.

Is this recipe suitable for muffins?

Yes, this exact batter transforms into beautiful muffins. Fill muffin tins about two-thirds full and bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.

Do the bananas have to be overripe?

Ripe, spotty bananas are best for Maple Pecan Banana Bread, as they add extra natural sweetness and moisture. If your bananas aren’t super ripe, you can roast them in their skins at 300°F for about 15 minutes to coax out more flavor.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Definitely! Substitute melted coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative for regular butter. The bread will still be wonderfully moist and flavorful with all the same cozy vibes.

Why is my banana bread dense or gummy?

Over-mixing the batter is the main culprit behind dense or gummy slices. Be sure to fold in the dry ingredients gently and stop as soon as everything is just combined for that perfect, tender crumb. Also, double-check that your baking soda and powder are fresh!

Final Thoughts

With its lush maple aroma, sweet banana base, and those crunchy pecan jewels, this Maple Pecan Banana Bread is too good not to share. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or brand new to quick breads, give this recipe a try and watch it disappear slice by slice. Your friends, family, and tastebuds will thank you!