- Prep
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Grease or line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
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Toast pecans in a dry pan for 3–5 minutes until fragrant (optional but adds flavor).
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- Mix Wet Ingredients
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In a large bowl, mash bananas.
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Stir in eggs, melted butter, sugar, and vanilla.
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- Add Dry Ingredients
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In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
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Add the dry mixture to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
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- Fold in Pecans
Gently fold in the chopped pecans, reserving a few to sprinkle on top if desired.
- Bake
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Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan.
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Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Let cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
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- Calories:210-230 kcal
- Total Fat:10 g
- Saturated Fat:2 g
- Carbohydrates:28 g
- Sugars:12 g
- Fiber:2 g
- Protein:3 g
- Sodium:180 mg
There’s something incredibly comforting about a freshly baked banana loaf—and when you add toasted pecans into the mix, it transforms into a soft, nutty, and flavorful treat that satisfies every craving. This Banana Pecan Loaf Cake brings together the natural sweetness of overripe bananas with the rich, buttery crunch of pecans. It’s moist without being overly dense, subtly spiced, and has just the right amount of texture from the nuts.
Whether you enjoy a slice with your morning coffee, serve it as a mid-afternoon snack, or dress it up with cream cheese frosting for dessert, this is endlessly versatile. It’s made from pantry staples, comes together quickly, and makes your kitchen smell like a cozy bakery. Plus, bananas and pecans both offer a handful of health benefits that make this indulgence feel a little less guilty.
This recipe includes expert tips, storage advice, and nutritional breakdowns so you can feel confident baking a loaf that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
🍌 Health Benefits of Banana Pecan Loaf Cake
✅ Nutritional Perks of Bananas and Pecans
- Bananas are rich in potassium, fiber, and natural sugars that support heart health and digestion.
- Pecans offer healthy fats, antioxidants, and magnesium to boost brain and bone health.
- This Banana Pecan Loaf Cake has lower refined sugar than store-bought cakes and can be sweetened naturally with coconut sugar or honey.
⚠️ Health Considerations to Keep in Mind
- Contains natural and added sugars, so portion control is key, especially for diabetics.
- Not gluten-free unless a suitable flour substitute is used.
- This loaf contains nuts and eggs, which may be unsuitable for those with food allergies.
👩🍳 Pro Tips for Baking the Best Banana Pecan Loaf Cake
- Use super ripe bananas—the darker the skin, the sweeter and moister the loaf.
- Avoid overmixing after adding flour to keep the texture light and soft.
- Toast the pecans to bring out their full nutty aroma before folding them in.
- Store your Banana Pecan Loaf Cake at room temperature for 2–3 days, or freeze slices individually.
- Want to make it dessert-worthy? Add a simple cream cheese glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar.
✨ Why Banana Pecan Loaf Cake Belongs in Your Recipe Book
Whether you’re baking for a casual brunch, a gift, or just a cozy snack at home, this is a sweet and satisfying way to use up overripe bananas. With its balance of nutrition and indulgence, it’s a go-to recipe for banana bread lovers who crave a little crunch. Try it once, and it might just become your favorite loaf.
