Banana Bread with Nutella Swirl Recipe

Name: Banana Bread with Nutella Swirl Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 1 cup sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup Nutella

Highlighted under: Simple Recipes

I absolutely love making banana bread, and when I decided to add a Nutella swirl, it took my baking game to a whole new level! The rich, chocolatey layers perfectly complement the moist banana flavor, creating a delightful treat that everyone adores. This recipe is quick to whip up and can easily become a family favorite. Whether enjoyed for breakfast or as a decadent snack, this banana bread is sure to impress. Let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe that combines two beloved flavors in one irresistible loaf!

Created by

Wendy Ashbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-06T12:05:34.757Z

When I first attempted this recipe, I wasn’t sure if the Nutella would really elevate the banana bread or if it would be a bit too rich. However, as soon as I pulled it out of the oven and caught a whiff of the chocolate and banana mingling, I knew I had created something special. The key is to swirl the Nutella into the batter gently; this creates beautiful marbling without losing the essence of the banana flavor.

Another tip I learned during my baking adventures is to use overripe bananas. They provide a natural sweetness and enhance the moisture of the bread, resulting in a wonderfully tender crumb. I often freeze my bananas when they get too ripe, making them perfect for this recipe. Trust me, the combination of ingredients here is magical!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich banana flavor harmoniously combined with creamy Nutella
Moist texture that stays fresh for days
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute baking

      

The Role of Ripe Bananas

Using ripe bananas is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in your banana bread. Ripe bananas, often speckled with brown spots, are sweeter and have a softer texture that integrates well into the batter. This results in a moist loaf with a strong banana flavor. If your bananas are not yet ripe enough, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag with an apple or avocado for a day.

In this recipe, the bananas not only add sweetness but also contribute to the bread's moisture. They help keep the loaf soft for several days, making this banana bread perfect for enjoying as a snack throughout the week. Remember, the more ripe they are, the better!

Techniques for Swirling Nutella

Swirling Nutella into your banana bread adds a deliciously decadent element. To achieve the perfect swirl, drop spoonfuls of Nutella on top of the batter and use a knife to gently fold it in. Avoid stirring too aggressively; you want distinct swirls rather than a fully combined mixture. Aim for a marbled effect that highlights both the banana flavor and the creamy chocolate goodness of the Nutella.

If you find the Nutella too thick to swirl, you can warm it slightly in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This makes it easier to spread and swirl through the batter without altering its taste. Just be sure to let it cool a bit before adding it to prevent cooking the banana bread batter.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once baked, let your banana bread cool fully in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. To store, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to four days. If you wish to extend its life, consider freezing it. Slice the bread and wrap each piece individually, then place them in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months and thawed at room temperature when you're ready to enjoy a slice.

For serving, consider pairing your banana bread with a dollop of whipped cream or a smear of peanut butter for an extra flavor twist. Toasting a slice brings out the Nutella's richness even more, creating a warm, gooey experience that's perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
1 cup sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup Nutella

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with the melted butter. Stir in the baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until fully integrated.

Add Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Add the Nutella

Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Add dollops of Nutella on top, then pour the remaining batter. Use a knife to gently swirl the Nutella through the batter.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool before slicing.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top before baking for added crunch. Also, make sure to store the bread in an airtight container to keep it moist.

Gifting Your Banana Bread

Banana bread makes a thoughtful gift, especially around holidays or for special occasions. To elevate your gifting, consider wrapping the loaf in decorative parchment paper and tying it with a festive ribbon. Adding a handwritten note with baking instructions or sharing the story behind the recipe can add a personal touch that recipients appreciate.

If you're giving the banana bread as a gift, opt for smaller loaf pans or mini versions. This makes it easier for others to enjoy, and you can create a variety of flavors by varying the ingredients, such as adding nuts or chocolate chips into the batter.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your banana bread comes out too dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter. After adding the flour, mix just until the ingredients are combined. A few lumps are perfectly fine! For a lighter loaf, consider sifting the flour beforehand to incorporate air into the mix.

Another common issue is a loaf that doesn't rise much. Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, as expired leavening agents won't help the bread rise properly. Testing them before use can save you from a disappointing loaf. Simply mix a teaspoon in warm water; if it bubbles, it's good to go!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other spreads instead of Nutella?

Absolutely! Peanut butter or almond butter are great alternatives.

→ Can I freeze the banana bread?

Yes, banana bread freezes well. Wrap it in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container.

→ How do I know when the banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; it should come out clean if the bread is fully baked.

→ Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would be a wonderful addition.