Copycat Starbucks Banana Walnut Pecan Bread

This Starbucks Banana Walnut Pecan Bread is a must try! For all Starbucks lovers who are craving banana bread and want to save money and have a healthier version, try this loaf! It is gluten-free, has no refined sugar and still is so flavorful and delivers on texture and sweetness.

There’s nothing quite like walking into Starbucks, grabbing your favorite coffee, and enjoying a slice of their famous Banana Walnut and Pecan Bread. With its perfectly moist texture and nutty flavor, this bread has become a staple for banana bread lovers. But what if you could enjoy this comforting treat fresh out of your oven, made just the way you like it? That’s what we’re here for!

In this recipe, we’ll recreate Starbucks’ iconic banana bread with a few wholesome ingredients you can easily find at home. Plus, this version allows for some flexibility, whether you want to keep it gluten-free or prefer to swap in all-purpose flour. So, grab your ripe bananas, and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Banana Walnut and Pecan Bread Recipe

This recipe is a go-to for busy mornings or cozy afternoons. Not only does it fill your kitchen with the comforting aroma of freshly baked banana bread, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrients from the bananas, walnuts, and pecans. Here’s why this recipe is worth making:

• Healthier Ingredients: We use coconut sugar and avocado oil for a naturally sweet and rich taste without refined sugars or processed oils.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: This recipe works wonderfully with gluten-free flour, making it a fantastic option for those with dietary restrictions.
• Perfect Texture: Using ripe bananas and a touch of milk ensures a soft, moist loaf that’s easy to slice and full of flavor.
• Nutty Goodness: The pecans and walnuts add a delicious crunch and flavor contrast to the sweet banana.

Let’s dive into the recipe!

What ingredients you need to make Starbucks Banana Walnut Pecan Bread:

• Ripe bananas – The riper, the better! Bananas with plenty of brown spots will bring out the natural sweetness.
• Egg – Helps bind the ingredients and adds richness to the loaf.
• Coconut sugar – A less processed sugar option with a slight caramel flavor that complements the bananas beautifully.
• Avocado oil – This healthy fat provides moisture without overpowering the other flavors. You can also substitute with melted coconut oil or vegetable oil if needed.
• Milk of choice – Whether you prefer dairy or plant-based milk, this helps keep the loaf moist.
• Vanilla extract – Adds a touch of warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Gluten-free flour – or sub all purpose flour. Ensures a soft, tender crumb.
• Cinnamon – Adds warmth and a hint of spice, making this bread even cozier.
• Pecans and walnuts – For that signature nutty crunch and classic Starbucks taste.

How to make Starbucks Banana Walnut Pecan Bread:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mash the Bananas: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas. Leave some small chunks if you like a bit of banana texture in each bite.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the egg, coconut sugar, avocado oil, milk, and vanilla extract to the bananas. Stir everything together until well combined and smooth.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the gluten-free flour (or all-purpose), baking soda, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
5. Fold in the Nuts: Gently fold in the chopped pecans and walnuts, ensuring they’re evenly distributed. If you love extra nuts on top, sprinkle a handful over the batter in the pan before baking.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, your banana bread is ready!
7. Cool and Slice: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once fully cooled, slice with a bread knife and enjoy your homemade Starbucks-style treat!

Tips for the Perfect Starbucks Banana Walnut and Pecan Bread

Here are a few tips to ensure your banana bread turns out just like Starbucks, if not better:

• Use Super Ripe Bananas: For maximum flavor and sweetness, wait until your bananas are very ripe. The darker the peel, the better the banana!
• Mix Gently: Overmixing can make the bread dense. Once you add the flour mixture, gently fold everything together until just combined.
• Customize the Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans or walnuts, feel free to use other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts, or omit them entirely.
• Store Properly: Keep your bread fresh by wrapping it in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly and freeze for up to a month.

Why We Love Using Coconut Sugar and Avocado Oil

Coconut sugar and avocado oil are staples in our baking pantry for good reason:

• Coconut Sugar: With a low glycemic index, coconut sugar provides a caramel-like sweetness without causing major blood sugar spikes. It’s a fantastic alternative to refined sugar and pairs perfectly with banana bread.
• Avocado Oil: Rich in monounsaturated fats, avocado oil is one of the healthiest oils available. It’s mild and neutral, allowing the flavors of the banana, cinnamon, and nuts to shine.

Making It Your Own: Variations to Try

This recipe is delicious as it is, but if you want to get creative, here are a few variations:

• Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Stir in a handful of chocolate chips along with the nuts for an extra indulgent loaf.
• Banana Bread Muffins: Pour the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake for 20-25 minutes at 350°F. These are perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts!
• Spiced Banana Bread: Add a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger for a warming, spiced loaf.
• Coconut Banana Bread: Swap ¼ cup of flour for shredded coconut, and add a sprinkle on top for extra texture.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Replace the egg with a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use plant-based milk. Be mindful that the baking time might need a slight adjustment, so keep an eye on it.

2. How do I prevent my banana bread from becoming too dense?

The key is to avoid overmixing once you add the flour mixture. Also, make sure your baking soda is fresh, as expired baking soda can affect the bread’s rise.

3. Can I freeze banana bread?

Yes! This banana bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll keep for up to a month. Just thaw at room temperature or heat slices in the microwave for a quick treat.

4. Why does my banana bread sometimes turn out dry?

If your bread feels dry, it could be from overbaking. Start checking for doneness at 40 minutes, and pull the loaf out as soon as a toothpick comes out clean. Using very ripe bananas and a bit of milk also helps maintain moisture.

Now you have a delightful, Starbucks-inspired banana bread recipe that’s easy to make and tastes amazing! Whether you’re having it with a morning coffee, as an afternoon snack, or even as a light dessert, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy your baking and don’t forget to share a slice with friends or family—they’ll love this treat just as much as you do.

Happy baking!

A few other delicious banana bread recipes to make:

Delicious Cottage Cheese Banana Bread

Vegan Carrot Cake Banana Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting

Gluten-free Birthday Cake Banana Bread

Vegan Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread Muffins