Crunchy Walnut Sourdough Banana Bread Recipe

Looking for a fun twist on a classic favorite? This Crunchy Walnut Sourdough Banana Bread combines the sweet, moist goodness of traditional banana bread with the tangy depth of sourdough starter and the nutty crunch of toasted walnuts.

It’s rich in flavor, perfectly tender, and has just the right balance of sweet and savory.

Whether you’re trying to use up extra sourdough discard or just want a next-level breakfast loaf, this recipe is a delicious way to do it — perfect with coffee, as a snack, or even for dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Sourdough Banana Bread

✔ Ultra-moist texture – Thanks to bananas, sourdough starter, and oil
✔ Tart & sweet flavor – The sourdough adds depth you’ll love
✔ Toasted walnuts for crunch – A nutty contrast in every bite
✔ Great for using up discards – No waste, all flavor
✔ Freezer-friendly & meal prep approved – Make one now, save one for later

The Best Crunchy Walnut Sourdough Banana Bread Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2–3 bananas)
½ cup sourdough discard (unfed starter, room temp)
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 eggs
½ cup neutral oil (or melted butter)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
½ cup chopped walnuts (plus extra for topping)
Optional: ¼ tsp nutmeg or ½ cup dark chocolate chips

How to Make Sourdough Banana Bread with Walnuts

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
Lightly toast the walnuts in a dry pan for extra crunch and flavor (optional but recommended).

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together mashed bananas, sourdough discard, sugars, eggs, oil, and vanilla until smooth.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (plus nutmeg if using).
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the banana mixture until just combined — do not overmix.
Fold in walnuts (and chocolate chips if using).

Step 4: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Sprinkle with extra chopped walnuts for a crunchy topping.
Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tasty Variations to Try

1. Maple Walnut Bread

🍁 Replace granulated sugar with maple syrup for added richness.

2. Apple-Walnut Sourdough Bread

🍏 Add ½ cup of diced apple to the batter for a fruity texture.

3. Gluten-Free Option

🌾 Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and ensure your sourdough discard is gluten-free.

4. Coconut Banana Bread

🥥 Add ¼ cup shredded coconut and top with coconut flakes before baking.

5. Banana Nut Muffins

🧁 Pour batter into a lined muffin tin and bake for 18–22 minutes at 350°F.

Tips for the Best Sourdough Banana Bread

✔ Use very ripe bananas – The riper, the sweeter and more flavorful
✔ Don’t overmix – Keeps the crumb tender and light
✔ Toast your walnuts – It deepens the flavor and keeps them crunchy
✔ Cool completely before slicing – For best texture and clean cuts

What to Serve with Walnut Banana Bread

☕ Coffee or spiced chai – A cozy morning treat
🍯 Honey or nut butter drizzle – For extra richness
🍓 Fresh fruit or yogurt – Light and refreshing on the side
🧈 Warm slice with butter – Simple and satisfying

How to Store and Freeze

Store: Wrap tightly and keep at room temp for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5.
Freeze: Slice and wrap individually; freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Microwave slices for 20–30 seconds or toast lightly.

Wrapping Up

This Crunchy Walnut Sourdough Banana Bread is a cozy, wholesome twist on a bakery favorite — full of deep flavor, tender texture, and nutty crunch in every bite.

Whether you’re a sourdough fan or just love banana bread, this loaf will become a staple in your kitchen.

Tried a variation or added your twist? Let me know in the comments! 🍌🍞🥜