We're Bananas About this Nutty Loaf Recipe

Olivia’s Banana, Walnut and Orange Loaf is a sure-fire way to satisfy those sweet treat cravings. Ripe bananas bring the sweetness, toasted walnuts add a lovely crunch, and fresh orange zest gives the loaf a citrusy lift.

Even better, the recipe uses Fairtrade ingredients including bananas, cinnamon, orange and brown sugar. So while you’re enjoying a delicious homemade loaf, your shopping choices can help farmers and workers get a fairer deal for their hard work. A sweet treat that can do some good too. What's not to love?

Why you’ll love this recipe

• Made with Fairtrade bananas, cinnamon, orange and brown sugar
• Toasted walnuts give every slice a satisfying crunch
• Makes a generous loaf, so there’s plenty to share
• Perfect for afternoon tea, family gatherings or simply whenever you fancy something sweet
• Choosing Fairtrade helps farmers and workers build more sustainable and secure livelihoods.

How to make Banana, Walnut and Orange Loaf

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C / 350°F / Gas Mark 4. Lightly butter a 900g (2lb) loaf tin and set aside.
2. Spread the walnuts on a baking sheet. Once the oven is ready, pop them in and toast them lightly.
3. Remove the walnuts after 7–8 minutes and leave them to cool on a chopping board. Once cool, roughly chop them.
4. Peel and mash three of the bananas to a purée with a fork. Peel the fourth banana and cut it into slices about 1cm (½in) thick. Set aside.
5. Sift both flours, the baking powder and cinnamon into a large mixing bowl, holding the sieve up high to give the ingredients a good airing.
6. Add the remaining ingredients, apart from the bananas and walnuts. Using an electric hand whisk, beat until smooth, starting on a low speed before turning it up to high.
7. Fold in the chopped walnuts and bananas. If the mixture doesn't drop easily from a spoon, add a few drops of milk to loosen it.
8. Spoon the mixture into the prepared tin and level the top. Fancy a little extra crunch? Sprinkle a small amount of sugar over the top before baking.
9. Bake in the centre of the oven for about 1 hour. Leave to cool in the tin for around 5 minutes, then turn the loaf out onto a cooling rack and allow it to cool completely before serving.

Try it, slice it, share it!

Whether you make it for friends, family or keep a few slices for yourself, this loaf is a delicious way to give those ripe bananas a new lease of life.

Looking for your next bake? Explore Fairtrade blogs for even more recipe inspiration.