Nutella Swirled Banana Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that combines the comfort of banana bread with the indulgence of Nutella, you’ve come to the right place! My Nutella Swirled Banana Bread is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re whipping it up on a busy weeknight or serving it at a family gathering, this recipe never fails to delight. With its moist texture and delightful chocolate hazelnut swirls, there’s just something special about this loaf that makes each slice feel like a warm hug.

Imagine walking into your kitchen as the sweet aroma fills the air, inviting everyone to gather around and enjoy a slice (or two!). This recipe is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to make. You’ll want to keep it handy for those moments when you need something comforting and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious loaf ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids adore the sweet Nutella swirl, making it perfect for breakfast or dessert.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Bake on the weekend and enjoy slices throughout the week—just pop in the toaster for a quick treat!
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of ripe bananas and rich Nutella creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some straightforward, wholesome ingredients for our Nutella Swirled Banana Bread. These are pantry staples that you might already have on hand!

For the Banana Bread

• 2 cups all purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup granulated white sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1½ cups mashed ripe banana
• ⅓ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¾ cup Nutella (chocolate hazelnut spread)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Use Different Yogurt: Try Greek yogurt for added protein and tangy flavor.
• Mix in Chocolate Chips: For an extra chocolatey experience, fold in some mini chocolate chips with the batter.
• Swap the Banana: For a twist, replace some of the banana with applesauce for added moisture.

How to Make Nutella Swirled Banana Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures that your banana bread bakes evenly. While it’s heating up, spray an 8×4-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray so your bread comes out perfectly without sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, ¾ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute the baking soda evenly throughout your batter.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to combine ¼ cup of butter and 1 cup of sugar. Beat them at medium speed until well blended. Then add your 2 large eggs, one at a time—this helps create a nice airy texture. Add in your 1½ cups of mashed ripe banana, ⅓ cup of yogurt, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until everything is combined.

Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to incorporate your flour mixture! Add it gradually and beat at low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your bread light and fluffy.

Step 5: Prepare the Nutella Swirl

Spoon your Nutella into a medium bowl and microwave it for about 10 seconds until it’s slightly softened. Take one cup of your banana bread batter and mix it with the Nutella until well blended. This will create that delicious swirl we’re looking for!

Step 6: Assemble in Pan

Now comes the fun part! Spoon dollops of both batters—Nutella-infused and plain—into your prepared loaf pan alternately. Then, take a knife and gently swirl them together for that beautiful marbled effect.

Step 7: Bake

Bake your creation for about 60 to 70 minutes. Keep an eye on it—at around 45 minutes, check if it’s browning too quickly; if it is, cover lightly with foil. It’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let your banana bread cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Then slice into this delightful loaf and savor every bite!

Your kitchen will be filled with warmth as you enjoy this delightful Nutella Swirled Banana Bread—a treat that’s sure to become a new favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Nutella Swirled Banana Bread

Baking is all about the little details, and these pro tips will help you create the most delicious Nutella Swirled Banana Bread ever!

• Use Overripe Bananas: The riper your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots; they’re perfect for baking!
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense bread. Just combine until the flour is incorporated for a light and fluffy texture.
• Swirl Gently: When creating the Nutella swirl, use a knife to gently fold it into the batter. This creates beautiful marbling without completely blending the two mixtures.
• Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary in temperature, so start checking for doneness at 45 minutes. This way, you can avoid overbaking and keep your banana bread moist.
• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allowing your banana bread to cool fully helps it set, making it easier to slice and enhancing its flavor.

How to Serve Nutella Swirled Banana Bread

Serving your Nutella Swirled Banana Bread is just as important as baking it! Here are some delightful ideas that will impress family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: A sprinkle of chopped walnuts or hazelnuts on top adds a nice crunch and complements the Nutella beautifully.
• Sliced Fresh Fruit: Serve with slices of strawberries or bananas on the side for a fresh contrast to the rich bread.
• Drizzle of Honey or Maple Syrup: A light drizzle can enhance sweetness and add an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and balances out the sweetness, making it a great pairing.
• Fresh Berries: A colorful mix of blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries brings freshness and acidity that complements the bread perfectly.
• Coffee or Tea: Pairing your banana bread with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea makes for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or hazelnut ice cream on top transforms this dessert into a decadent indulgence!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’ll surely wow everyone with your Nutella Swirled Banana Bread. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Nutella Swirled Banana Bread is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy the delightful flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the banana bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep it in the fridge for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the banana bread before freezing for easy snacking.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy a warm slice, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Unwrap the slices and place them on a baking sheet.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave: heat each slice for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this recipe, I’ve got you covered!

Can I use other spreads instead of Nutella in Nutella Swirled Banana Bread?

Absolutely! You can substitute Nutella with any chocolate spread or even a nut butter like almond or peanut butter for a different flavor twist.

How do I know when my Nutella Swirled Banana Bread is done baking?

The best way to check is by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your banana bread is ready!

Can I make Nutella Swirled Banana Bread without eggs?

Yes! You can replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana. This will help maintain moisture and texture.

What type of bananas are best for this recipe?

Ripe bananas are key! Look for bananas that are brown and spotty; they’re sweet and perfect for mashing.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Nutella Swirled Banana Bread?

You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for extra warmth and flavor. A handful of chopped nuts can also add a delightful crunch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Nutella Swirled Banana Bread! It’s not just a treat; it’s comfort food that brings warmth and happiness to any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or savoring leftovers throughout the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy baking!