Imagine a classic, comforting banana bread elevated to new heights with luscious swirls of chocolate-hazelnut Nutella baked right into every slice. Why settle for spreading Nutella on your banana bread when you can infuse that delightful flavor directly into the batter? This Nutella Banana Bread recipe isn’t just a treat; it’s an experience that promises to delight your taste buds and become an instant family favorite.

Ultimate Nutella Banana Bread: Easy, Moist, and Irresistible!

The combination of Nutella and banana is a culinary match made in heaven, a duo celebrated in countless forms around the globe. From delicate crepes generously topped with banana slices and a dollop of Nutella, to a simple banana dipped straight into the jar – these flavors are universally adored. But what if we told you there’s a way to experience this iconic pairing that surpasses them all? Enter our incredible Nutella Banana Bread. This isn’t just another banana bread; it’s a moist, tender loaf infused with rich, chocolate-hazelnut ribbons of Nutella, transforming a beloved classic into an extraordinary indulgence.

This recipe doesn’t just feature a touch of Nutella; it artfully blends an entire cup of this delightful spread throughout a perfectly baked, incredibly moist banana bread batter. The result is a stunning marbled effect, with pockets of chocolatey goodness in every bite. It’s the ultimate quick bread for anyone who craves the sweet, comforting taste of banana bread combined with the luxurious, nutty notes of Nutella. If you’re a chocolate lover, prepare to meet your new favorite baked good, a treat that’s guaranteed to disappear quickly from any table!

Why This Nutella Banana Bread Recipe is a Must-Try

Beyond its undeniable deliciousness, this Nutella Banana Bread offers several compelling reasons to become a staple in your baking repertoire. It’s remarkably easy to prepare, making it accessible even for novice bakers. The simple mixing process and straightforward instructions mean you can whip up a batch with minimal fuss, yielding impressive results every time. But the ease of preparation doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture. This bread is consistently moist, incredibly fluffy, and boasts a rich depth of flavor that sets it apart from standard banana bread recipes, ensuring a bakery-quality result right from your home kitchen.

It’s also incredibly versatile. While it makes a fantastic addition to any breakfast spread or brunch menu, it’s equally delightful as an afternoon snack or a comforting dessert. Imagine serving a warm slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, perhaps with an extra drizzle of melted Nutella on top – pure bliss! The beautiful swirls of Nutella also make it visually appealing, perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings. Furthermore, this beautiful loaf is perfect for sharing or gifting. Its unique appeal and gourmet touch are sure to garner rave reviews from friends, family, and colleagues. You’ll find yourself making this recipe again and again, eager to share its magic with everyone you know.

If you’re already a fan of banana bread and looking to explore more delightful variations, be sure to try other fantastic recipes like Quick and Easy Banana Nut Muffins, Brown Butter Banana Bread, and Cookie Butter Banana Muffins. Each offers a unique twist on the beloved classic, but this Nutella version holds a special place for its irresistible charm and unparalleled combination of flavors.

Essential Ingredients for Your Nutella Banana Bread

One of the beauties of this recipe is that, aside from the star ingredient, Nutella, most of the components are standard pantry staples you likely already have on hand. However, understanding the role of each ingredient will help you achieve the best possible results. Quality ingredients are key to a truly exceptional banana bread, so let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to create this delectable loaf:

• Ripe bananas: This is non-negotiable for superior flavor and sweetness. The browner, the better! Overripe bananas not only lend a more intense banana flavor but also contribute significantly to the bread’s incredible moisture and natural sweetness. Aim for bananas that are heavily speckled with brown spots, or even entirely brown. If yours aren’t quite ripe enough for baking, don’t despair! You can learn how to quickly ripen bananas to speed up the process and get baking sooner.
• Light brown sugar: This adds a wonderful depth of flavor, a subtle caramel note, and crucial moisture that granulated sugar simply can’t match. It also contributes to the bread’s soft, tender texture. While dark brown sugar can be used in a pinch, its more robust molasses flavor might be a bit overpowering for some, so light brown sugar is recommended for a balanced taste.
• Vegetable oil: Using oil instead of butter is a secret to a supremely moist crumb and keeps the bread tender for days without drying out. Canola oil is a perfect, neutral-flavored substitute if you don’t have vegetable oil. It’s important to use a neutral-flavored oil to let the distinct banana and Nutella flavors truly shine.
• Egg: A single large egg acts as a binder, providing essential structure and richness to the batter. It helps hold everything together and contributes to the overall texture. For best results, allow your egg to come to room temperature before incorporating it into the mixture. This helps it emulsify better with the other wet ingredients, leading to a smoother, more uniform batter.
• Vanilla extract: A touch of pure vanilla extract is like a secret weapon in baking. It enhances all the other flavors, adding a warm, aromatic note that beautifully complements both the banana and chocolate. Always use good quality vanilla for the best aroma and taste. Don’t skip this!
• All-purpose flour: The structural foundation of our quick bread. For accurate measurements and consistent results, always measure flour by weight using a kitchen scale. If you don’t have a scale, use the “spoon and sweep” method to avoid over-packing, as explained in our comprehensive guide on how to measure flour. Too much flour can lead to a dry, dense loaf.
• Baking powder: This chemical leavening agent helps the bread rise, contributing to a light and airy texture. It’s activated by liquid.
• Baking soda: Working in conjunction with the natural acidity of the mashed bananas, baking soda contributes to the bread’s lift and promotes a beautifully browned, tender crust. It reacts with acids to produce carbon dioxide, creating air pockets in the batter.
• Salt: A pinch of salt is crucial for balancing the sweetness and enhancing the overall flavor profile. It brightens the taste of both the banana and Nutella, preventing the bread from tasting flat or overly sweet.
• Nutella: The undeniable star of the show! This iconic chocolate-hazelnut spread is what makes this banana bread truly special and gives it its signature irresistible swirls. Feel free to use another trusted brand of chocolate-hazelnut spread if you have a favorite, ensuring it’s of good quality. For easy swirling, ensure your Nutella is at room temperature or slightly warmed.

Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Delicious Nutella Banana Bread

Making this Nutella Banana Bread is a straightforward and enjoyable process, perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a perfect, mouth-watering loaf every time, from prep to cool-down:

1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct, consistent temperature when your batter is ready, promoting even baking and a beautiful rise. Next, prepare a standard 9″ x 5″ loaf pan. Grease it thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray, and then line it with parchment paper, allowing a generous overhang on the longer sides. This parchment “sling” will make it incredibly easy to lift the baked bread out of the pan without any sticking. Alternatively, you can butter and flour the pan, or use a baking spray that contains flour, such as Baker’s Joy or Pam for Baking.
2. Mash Bananas and Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, take your super ripe bananas and mash them thoroughly with a fork until mostly smooth. A few small lumps are perfectly fine and can even add a desirable texture to the finished bread! To the mashed bananas, add the light brown sugar, vegetable oil, your room temperature egg, and the vanilla extract. Stir everything together well with a spoon or whisk until all the wet ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is smooth and fragrant. Ensure there are no pockets of dry sugar remaining.









3. Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a separate, medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking is an important step as it ensures that the leavening agents and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour. This prevents pockets of unmixed ingredients, which could lead to an uneven rise or inconsistent flavor in the final bread.




4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet banana mixture directly into the bowl with the whisked dry ingredients. Using a spoon or spatula, stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter; overmixing can overdevelop the gluten in the flour, which will lead to a tough, dry, and chewy banana bread rather than the desired tender and moist crumb. A few small streaks of flour are perfectly fine and will disappear during baking.




5. Assemble and Swirl with Nutella: Now for the creative part! Pour approximately half of the banana bread batter evenly into your prepared loaf pan. Next, spoon generous dollops of room temperature Nutella randomly on top of this first layer of batter. Don’t be too neat; a little randomness creates more interesting swirls. Gently take a knife or a skewer and swirl through the Nutella and batter. Be mindful not to over-swirl; the goal is to create distinct, beautiful ribbons and pockets of Nutella, not to completely integrate it into the banana batter. Once you’re happy with your swirls, carefully add the remaining banana bread batter on top, gently spreading it to cover the Nutella layer. You can add a few more small dollops of Nutella on top of this layer and swirl again for a more dramatic finish, if desired.










6. Bake to Perfection: Carefully place the loaf pan into your preheated oven, ideally on the middle rack. Bake for approximately 45 to 50 minutes. The baking time can vary depending on your specific oven and the moisture content of your bananas, so it’s always best to keep a close eye on it. The bread is perfectly done when the top has beautifully browned, and a wooden toothpick or skewer inserted into the very center (away from any visible Nutella pockets) comes out clean, with no wet batter attached. If the top starts to brown too quickly before the center is cooked, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.




7. Cooling Process: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the loaf pan on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. This initial cooling period is crucial as it allows the bread to set and firms up its structure, making it less prone to sticking or falling apart when removed from the pan. After 10 minutes, carefully use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bread out of the pan and transfer it directly to the wire rack to cool completely. Allowing it to cool fully on the rack (which can take an hour or more) is essential for preventing a soggy bottom and for achieving clean, crumb-free slices. Learn more about Why Every Baker Needs Wire Cooling Racks and how they contribute to perfectly baked goods.

Serving Suggestions & Delightful Variations

This Nutella Banana Bread is fantastic on its own, a true stand-alone delight. However, you can easily elevate the experience with a few creative serving suggestions or delightful variations to suit any taste or occasion:

• Classic Enjoyment: Serve slices warm or at room temperature. It pairs perfectly with a freshly brewed cup of coffee, a soothing tea, or a glass of milk for a comforting breakfast, a satisfying afternoon pick-me-up, or a light evening snack.
• Decadent Dessert Indulgence: Transform it into a show-stopping dessert by warming a slice gently in the microwave or oven. Top it generously with a scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream or whipped cream, and finish with an extra drizzle of warm, melted Nutella or a dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder for a truly luxurious treat.
• Nutty Crunch: For an added textural element and an extra layer of nutty flavor, fold in a half cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts into the batter along with the dry ingredients. The crunch contrasts beautifully with the soft bread.
• Extra Chocolate Boost: If you’re a true chocoholic, stir in a half cup of mini chocolate chips (milk, dark, or even white chocolate) into the banana batter. This will ensure an even more intense chocolatey goodness in every bite, complementing the Nutella perfectly.
• Cream Cheese Swirl: For an even richer, tangier twist, prepare a simple cream cheese swirl. Mix 4 oz softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup sugar and 1 egg yolk until smooth. Dollop this mixture alongside the Nutella before adding the final batter layer for a beautiful marbled effect and creamy texture.
• Sweet Glaze Finish: A simple powdered sugar glaze drizzled over the cooled loaf adds an extra layer of sweetness and a beautiful, elegant finish. Combine 1 cup powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons milk or cream and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, whisk until smooth, and drizzle away!
• Toasted Slices: For a quick and easy option, toast individual slices in a toaster oven. The edges will crisp up, and the Nutella will slightly melt, creating an even more delightful texture.

Storing Your Nutella Banana Bread for Lasting Freshness

You’ve baked a magnificent loaf of Nutella Banana Bread, and now you want to enjoy every last crumb! Proper storage is essential to maintaining its incredible moisture, tender texture, and delicious flavor. Whether you plan to savor it over a few days or want to save some for a future craving, here are your best options for keeping your homemade treat fresh:

• Countertop Storage (Short-Term Freshness): For enjoying your banana bread within a couple of days, allow the loaf to cool completely on a wire rack first. Then, loosely wrap the entire loaf in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you’ve already sliced it, it’s best to place the individual pieces in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. Stored this way, it will remain wonderfully fresh and moist on your kitchen counter for 2 to 3 days. The loose wrapping helps prevent the bread from becoming soggy while still protecting it from air exposure.
• Refrigerator Storage (Extended Freshness): To extend its freshness, especially in warmer climates, during humid periods, or if your home is particularly warm, storing the bread in the refrigerator is an excellent option. Wrap the cooled Nutella Banana Bread loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap to create a good seal, and then place it in an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days. Ensure it’s very well-sealed to prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors from other foods or becoming dry and stale. If you like your bread warm, you can heat individual slices briefly in the microwave.
• Freezer Storage (Long-Term Preservation): Nutella Banana Bread freezes exceptionally well, making it perfect for meal prepping, ensuring you always have a delicious treat on hand, or saving a batch for later! Once the loaf has cooled completely to room temperature, wrap it tightly in a double layer of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil. This double protection is crucial for preventing freezer burn and maintaining flavor and texture. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Alternatively, you can slice the bread before freezing, wrapping each slice individually with two layers of plastic wrap, and then placing them in a larger freezer-safe bag or container. This allows you to thaw just one slice at a time for an individual serving. To enjoy, simply remove a slice (or the whole loaf) from the freezer and let it thaw on the counter for an hour or two. You can briefly warm individual slices in the microwave (about 15-30 seconds) for that delightful fresh-baked feel, or toast them lightly.

Get the Recipe:

Nutella Banana Bread

Yield: 10 servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

This Nutella banana bread is really moist and fluffy and can be eaten at any time of the day. The sweetness and softness of the bananas are perfectly combined with the rich chocolatey flavour of Nutella. A heavenly combo that is impossible to resist!

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Ingredients

• 3 large ripe bananas
• 1 cup (200 g) firmly packed light brown sugar
• ⅔ cup (160 ml) vegetable oil
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups (180 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (280 g) Nutella

Recommended Products

• USA Pan Standard Loaf Pan 9″ x 5″
• Half Sheet Nonstick Cooling Rack

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9″ x 5″ loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork and add the sugar, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix well until combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Pour the banana mixture into the flour mixture, and stir until just combined.
5. Transfer half of the batter to the prepared pan. Using a spoon, add dollops of Nutella on top of the batter, and gently swirl the batter with a knife to form ribbons of Nutella.
6. Pour the other half of the batter on top. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top of the bread has browned and a pick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool the bread in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Then transfer the bread from the pan to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

• How to store:
  • Counter: Loosely wrap your bread in plastic wrap or slice it and place the pieces in an airtight container. You can then store it on the counter for 2-3 days.
  • Fridge: Wrap the banana bread loaf or slices in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for 4-5 days.
  • Freezer: Your loaf can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to 3 months. You can also freeze it in slices, wrapping each slice individually with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to eat, set a slice on the counter to thaw.

Author: Jennifer McHenry

Course: quick breads

Cuisine: American