Oh, let me tell you about the night my kitchen turned into a flavor playground with Banana Nut Bagels! I was craving something cozy but with a bold twist, and the idea hit me during one of my late-night kitchen experiments. I grabbed some overripe bananas and crunchy nuts, thinking, “Why not mix these comfort food heroes into bagels?” The anticipation was buzzing in the air as I blended that banana nut breakfast bread goodness into a dough that smelled like pure joy.
When my Banana Nut Bagels came out golden brown, warm, and nutty with just the right hint of banana sweetness, I had a happy accident that became an instant favorite. The balance of soft banana flavor, a nutty crunch, and that classic bagel chewiness turned a simple meal into something truly special. It’s one of those recipes that makes you want to pause, smile, and maybe even do a little happy dance right in your kitchen.
Since then, this Banana Nut Bagels recipe has been my go-to weeknight winner when I want something satisfying without the fuss. Every time I share them at game nights or potlucks, friends’ eyes light up the moment they taste these nutty breakfast bagels—they can’t believe how delicious comfort food with a twist can be.
So, fellow food lovers, if you’re excited to add a new bold flavor adventure to your kitchen rotation, get ready to dive into this homemade banana bagels wonder. Trust me, your meals will be transformed with every bite. Let’s make your next meal unforgettable with Banana Nut Bagels!
Ingredients You Need
Here’s everything you need for these show-stopping Banana Nut Bagels! This list of ingredients is all about bold flavors that actually work together, making these banana nut breakfast bagels pop with every bite.
- 2 ripe bananas (about 1 cup mashed) – The star of your banana nut breakfast bread flavor.
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour – You can grab this during your normal grocery trip.
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast – Makes that dough rise into perfect bagels.
- 1 cup warm water (110°F) – Helps activate your yeast and blend flavors.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar – Sweetens just enough without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out all the flavors.
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (or pecans) – Adds that crunchy nutty texture. No worries if you don’t have walnuts; pecans work amazing in my Banana Nut Bagels too.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil – Keeps your Banana Nut Bagels tender.
- 1 egg (for egg wash) – This Banana Nut Bagels secret makes the crust beautifully shiny and golden.
I love adding extra chopped nuts on top before baking for that extra crunch. This Banana Nut Bagels dough mixes super quick, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want bold flavor fast.
Storage tip: Store your Banana Nut Bagels in an airtight container or a zipper bag on the counter for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze and toast when ready to enjoy a quick nutty breakfast bagel blast.
Don’t forget, for more banana bread inspiration that complements these bagels, check out the banana bread recipe and protein banana bread on Grill Drip.
Let’s Make Some!
Ready to dive in and make your own Banana Nut Bagels? Let’s do this—this is where the magic starts happening!
- Activate the yeast: In a big mixing bowl, combine your warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it bubble and foam for about 5 minutes—it smells like delicious anticipation already!
- Mix in bananas and oil: Add the mashed ripe bananas and vegetable oil to that yeast mix. Stir gently and feel the sweet, nutty vibe coming together.
- Add dry ingredients: Slowly mix in the flour and salt. I usually add about 3 cups first, then add more till the dough feels right—slightly tacky but not sticky. This is your homemade banana bagels dough taking shape!
- Fold in nuts: Now fold in your chopped walnuts or pecans. Don’t skip this step! Those nuts make this Banana Nut Bagels a nutty breakfast bagels dream.
- Knead the dough: On a floured surface, knead your dough for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Don’t worry if your Banana Nut Bagels dough looks a little rough at first—it gets smooth and ready to rise soon!
- First rise: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. While you wait, you can sneak a peek at some easy homemade bagel breakfast inspiration on this Facebook group.
- Shape the bagels: Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each into a ball, then poke a hole through the center and gently stretch the ring—it’s fun kitchen magic! Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Second rise: Cover with a towel and let rise another 20 minutes. Your Banana Nut Bagels are almost ready!
- Boil time: Preheat your water with 1 tablespoon of sugar. Boil each bagel for 1 minute on each side. This gives that classic bagel chew and crust.
- Egg wash and bake: Brush each bagel with beaten egg and sprinkle extra nuts on top if you like. Bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
In my kitchen, this Banana Nut Bagels process typically takes about 2.5 hours from start to finish, but trust me—the wait is worth every bite!
If you love this revolutionary banana and nut combo, check out the Easy Homemade High Protein Blueberry Bagels for another fantastic twist.
How to Serve Up This!
When your Banana Nut Bagels hit the table warm and golden, people literally do happy dances! Here’s how I like to serve up these bagels with bold flavor combos that steal the show.
- Spread with cream cheese and honey: The sweetness of honey plays beautifully with the banana and nuts.
- Toast and top with peanut butter and banana slices: This is a quick favorite, and you can find similar inspiration at this Facebook post.
- Add a handful of fresh berries for a pop of color and tartness.
- Serve sliced with scrambled eggs for a hearty weekend breakfast.
Perfect occasions? These Banana Nut Bagels shine at weekend brunches, casual game nights, and as a nutty twist to your regular breakfast rotation. I’ve even taken them on road trips for a breakfast bread “on the go” that’s tasty and keeps well.
If you get leftovers, slice and toast them the next day. Then, top with your favorite nut butter or mash into a breakfast sandwich. Bonus points for turning these bagels with nuts and banana into a warm breakfast delight!
For a fusion flavor adventure, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or even swapping walnuts for toasted pistachios.
FAQs:
Will kitchen newbies succeed with this Banana Nut Bagels?
Absolutely! I designed this banana bagel recipe to be straightforward for all skill levels. If you follow the steps and keep an eye on your dough’s texture, you’ll get that chewy, nutty breakfast bagel everyone loves.
What if I mess up my Banana Nut Bagels?
Spoiler: It’ll still taste incredible! I once forgot to boil mine before baking—they tasted more like banana nut bread rolls but still disappeared fast at the table. Don’t stress; flavor always wins.
How can I prep this Banana Nut Bagels for busy weeknights?
I recommend mixing and shaping the dough earlier in the day, then refrigerating it. When you’re ready, let it warm up, boil, and bake. Perfect for a quick bold flavor fix.
Can I use other nuts?
Yes! Pecans, almonds, or even macadamia nuts are fantastic alternatives. I often switch nuts up for variety and fresh flavor in my Banana Nut Bagels.
Do I have to use fresh bananas?
Fresh or overripe bananas work great. Overripe bananas actually add more natural sweetness and moisture. Perfect for reducing waste!
How do I store leftover Banana Nut Bagels?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or freeze for longer storage. Toast from frozen for a warm nutty breakfast bagels hit.
Can I make this gluten-free?
I haven’t tested gluten-free flours with this banana nut breakfast bread dough, but if you’re adventurous, try a gluten-free blend and share your results!
For more weeknight winners that don’t sacrifice on taste, check out these amazing zucchini banana bread muffins.
Conclusion:
This Banana Nut Bagels recipe brings me so much joy because it blends two of my favorite comfort food vibes into one bold flavor winner. The combination of soft, sweet bananas with crunchy nuts in a chewy, pillowy bagel creates a flavor adventure that gives your taste buds a reason to celebrate.
My Banana Nut Bagels Flavor Secrets:
- Use ripe bananas for maximum natural sweetness and moisture.
- Toast nuts before adding them to release extra flavor depth.
- Don’t skip the boil—it’s key to that authentic bagel texture with a crispy crust and chewy inside.
I’ve tried several delicious Banana Nut Bagels variations, including adding cinnamon for a warm spice twist and swapping walnuts for macadamias for a tropical vibe. Whether it’s for weekend brunch or a game night snack, each version brings excitement to the table.
Fellow food lovers, trust your taste buds and get creative with this recipe. I’m so excited for you to try these homemade banana bagels and watch how they turn your meals into something special. Fire up your oven, embrace the delicious magic, and let’s keep those bold flavors flowing!
If you love these Banana Nut Bagels, you’ll also adore the flavors in this quick and easy homemade bagel breakfast post that keeps mornings delicious and exciting.
Happy cooking, friends!
Banana Nut Bagels
Delight in soft, chewy banana nut bagels bursting with natural sweetness and crunchy walnuts, perfect for a wholesome breakfast or snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 bagels
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Fold in chopped walnuts gently.
- Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently to combine.
- Divide dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each into a ball, then poke a hole through the center and shape into bagels.
- Place bagels on the prepared baking sheet and brush tops with melted butter.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
- Let cool on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
For an extra touch, serve warm with cream cheese or a drizzle of maple syrup.