This Nutella Banana Bread is a dream come true for anyone who craves the comforting flavor of ripe bananas mixed with creamy hazelnut spread. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that transforms humble ingredients into a decadent loaf perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent snack. The rich swirl of Nutella adds a touch of luxury to each moist and flavorful bite.
Perfectly suited for beginner bakers or anyone who wants to impress with minimal effort, this banana bread is soft, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. The sweetness of bananas complements the chocolate-hazelnut swirls, while the optional nuts or chocolate chips add delightful texture. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that fills the kitchen with the warm aroma of home baking.
Full Recipe:
.Ingredients:
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3 large overripe bananas, mashed
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1/2 cup Nutella or hazelnut spread
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2 tsp pure vanilla extract
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1/4 cup milk of choice (dairy or plant-based)
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1/4 cup oil (such as coconut or vegetable)
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2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
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1 1/2 cups spelt, oat, or all-purpose flour
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3/4 tsp baking soda
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1/2 tsp baking powder
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1/2 tsp salt
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Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
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In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Stir in Nutella, vanilla extract, milk, oil, and maple syrup until well combined.
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In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
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If using, gently fold in the chopped walnuts or chocolate chips.
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. For extra Nutella flair, swirl a tablespoon of Nutella into the top of the batter using a knife.
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Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are fine).
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Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 210 kcal per slice | Servings: 10 slices
Why Nutella Banana Bread Deserves a Spot in Your Recipe Collection
There’s something timeless and universally loved about banana bread. It’s a recipe born from simplicity, comfort, and resourcefulness—created to salvage overripe bananas and turn them into something warm and nostalgic. Now imagine elevating that classic with a rich swirl of Nutella, the beloved chocolate-hazelnut spread adored by millions around the world. The result? A moist, flavorful, and indulgent loaf that feels both familiar and exciting: Nutella Banana Bread.
A Little Background
Banana bread itself has roots in the Great Depression era of the 1930s when resourceful home bakers sought to avoid food waste. Overripe bananas, once destined for the compost bin, found new life as the base of a moist, naturally sweet bread. Over the decades, the recipe has evolved into countless variations—some healthy, some decadent, all delicious.
Nutella, on the other hand, originated in Italy in the 1960s as a way to make chocolate more affordable. Combining hazelnuts, cocoa, and sugar, it quickly became a worldwide pantry staple. By marrying these two icons—banana bread and Nutella—you create a unique fusion of American home baking and European indulgence.
Why This Nutella Banana Bread Stands Out
This recipe isn’t just another twist on banana bread; it’s the ultimate version for those who crave something sweet, rich, and comforting. Here’s what makes this loaf shine:
1. Incredible Moisture and Texture
Banana bread is known for being moist, but this version takes it to the next level. The overripe bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, while a touch of oil and milk keeps the crumb soft and tender. When Nutella is swirled through the batter, it adds pockets of gooey, melt-in-your-mouth richness that contrast beautifully with the banana base.
2. Irresistible Flavor Pairing
Banana and chocolate have always been a match made in heaven. Add the nutty depth of hazelnuts and you’re taking it up a notch. The caramel-like sweetness of ripe bananas balances the creamy richness of the Nutella, creating a flavor that’s comforting yet sophisticated.
3. Adaptable and Customizable
One of the joys of this recipe is its flexibility. You can swap the flour for oat or spelt to make it heartier or choose a dairy-free milk to suit plant-based diets. Add-ins like walnuts or chocolate chips introduce extra texture. The recipe can also be doubled and baked as mini loaves or muffins, making it ideal for gifting or portioning.
4. Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Impact
With just a few kitchen staples—bananas, flour, oil, baking agents, and Nutella—you can whip up a bakery-quality loaf without fuss. No mixers, no hard-to-find ingredients, just one bowl and a spoon.
5. Family-Friendly and Kid-Approved
This bread is a surefire hit with kids thanks to its sweet, chocolatey appeal, but adults love it just as much—especially with a hot cup of coffee or a scoop of ice cream. It’s also a great way to sneak fruit into your family’s snack rotation without complaints.
Health Benefits (Yes, Really!)
While Nutella Banana Bread is certainly a treat, it can have a place in a balanced diet, especially when made with wholesome ingredients:
- Bananas are rich in potassium, vitamin B6, and fiber, which support heart health, digestion, and energy levels.
- Hazelnuts (present in Nutella) offer healthy fats and antioxidants that benefit the brain and cardiovascular system.
- Oat or whole wheat flour adds complex carbs and fiber, aiding in satiety and blood sugar balance.
- Plant-based options like almond or oat milk can make this bread suitable for lactose-intolerant or vegan eaters.
When to Enjoy It
This loaf is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed:
- For breakfast: Pair it with Greek yogurt or a fruit smoothie for a satisfying start.
- As a snack: A mid-afternoon slice with tea or coffee feels like a café treat at home.
- As dessert: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream and a drizzle of extra Nutella.
- For celebrations: Dress it up with powdered sugar or glaze and bring it to a brunch, baby shower, or potluck.
Make It Ahead and Freeze It
Another reason to love this banana bread? It stores beautifully. It will stay moist for up to 4 days at room temperature in an airtight container, or you can freeze slices individually for up to 2 months. Just wrap each slice in parchment or plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in a toaster or microwave for a just-baked feel anytime.
Tips for the Perfect Nutella Swirl
If you want that signature swirl on top of your loaf, warm a tablespoon of Nutella slightly in the microwave to make it easier to drizzle. Drop it in spoonfuls on top of the batter and use a butter knife or toothpick to gently swirl it into beautiful marbled patterns before baking. Don’t overdo it—the goal is contrast, not uniformity.
A Crowd-Pleasing Recipe for All Skill Levels
Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned kitchen pro, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving. There’s no need for a stand mixer or fancy techniques—just mash, stir, swirl, and bake. It’s a great starter recipe for kids or new bakers looking to gain confidence.
Final Thoughts
Nutella Banana Bread is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience. It brings together nostalgic comfort and indulgent flair in one irresistible slice. With simple prep and stunning results, it’s a loaf you’ll turn to again and again—for cozy weekends, celebrations, or just because.
Whether you’re looking to use up those overripe bananas or want to surprise your family with something special, this recipe has you covered. Try it once, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to banana bread forever.
Conclusion
Nutella Banana Bread is the perfect blend of comfort and indulgence—bringing together the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the rich, creamy swirl of hazelnut-chocolate goodness. It’s a foolproof recipe that’s easy enough for beginners, yet impressive enough to serve at brunches, bake sales, or cozy family gatherings. Whether enjoyed warm out of the oven or toasted the next day with a pat of butter, each slice offers a delightful balance of flavor and texture. With simple ingredients, endless customization options, and universal appeal, this banana bread is more than just a sweet treat—it’s a new staple in your baking repertoire.