Mary Berry Banana Pecan Loaf With Honey Icing Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a baking recipe that’s simple, delicious, and guaranteed to impress, Mary Berry’s banana pecan loaf with honey icing is the perfect choice!

Packed with the comforting sweetness of ripe bananas, crunchy pecans, and a drizzle of luscious honey icing, this loaf brings together classic flavors in a way that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Plus, it’s a recipe that combines ease with a touch of elegance, making it ideal for everything from casual afternoon teas to special occasions. If you’re a fan of moist, flavorful cakes with a hint of something special, this is a must-try!

Mary Berry Banana Pecan Loaf With Honey Icing Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To create Mary Berry’s Banana Pecan Loaf with Honey Icing, you’ll need a harmonious blend of ingredients that ensure a moist, flavorful cake with a lovely crunch from the pecans, complemented by the sweetness of honey in the icing. Each ingredient plays an essential role, contributing both flavor and texture to the loaf. Here’s the breakdown:

1. Bananas: Overripe bananas are perfect for this recipe. Their sweetness and soft texture provide moisture to the loaf, making it tender. The more ripe the bananas, the better, as they will mash more easily and bring out a deeper, richer banana flavor.

2. Butter: Softened butter adds richness and a smooth texture to the cake. It helps in creating a light crumb while also contributing to the loaf’s overall moisture.

3. Caster Sugar: Caster sugar, being finer than regular granulated sugar, ensures a smooth batter. It dissolves easily, adding sweetness without any graininess, and helps to create a slightly airy texture.

4. Eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together, providing structure and stability. They also contribute to the moisture and texture of the loaf, ensuring it doesn’t turn out too dry or dense.

5. Self-Raising Flour: This flour is the cornerstone of the loaf’s rise. With baking powder already included, it helps the loaf to rise evenly, creating a light and fluffy texture.

6. Baking Powder: Even though self-raising flour already contains baking powder, adding a little extra ensures the loaf rises well and doesn’t become too heavy.

7. Pecans: The star of the show when it comes to crunch and texture, pecans add a delightful nuttiness and slight sweetness. They’re toasted to bring out their flavor and provide a satisfying contrast to the soft loaf.

8. Honey: Honey plays a dual role-first, as an ingredient in the icing, adding a smooth, natural sweetness that’s both floral and rich, and second, it can contribute a subtle sweetness to the loaf itself if desired.

9. Icing Sugar: For the icing, icing sugar is necessary to achieve the desired smooth and glossy finish. It ensures that the honey can blend easily into the icing and creates a perfect drizzle over the loaf.

Equipment Needed

Making this delicious Banana Pecan Loaf with Honey Icing requires a few basic kitchen tools to help everything come together seamlessly:

1. Loaf Tin: A 2lb loaf tin is ideal for this recipe. It gives the loaf the perfect shape, ensuring it bakes evenly and has enough room to rise without spilling over the sides.

2. Mixing Bowls: A large mixing bowl is essential for preparing the batter. You’ll also need a smaller bowl for preparing the icing.

3. Electric Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: While it’s possible to mix by hand, using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer makes the process much quicker and easier, especially when it comes to creaming the butter and sugar.

4. Spatula: A rubber spatula helps in folding the mashed bananas, nuts, and dry ingredients together without overworking the batter, ensuring the loaf stays light.

5. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements of your ingredients are key to making sure the texture and taste are just right. Measuring cups and spoons will help in portioning everything precisely.

6. Cooling Rack: After baking, placing the loaf on a cooling rack allows air to circulate around it, helping it to cool evenly and preventing it from becoming soggy at the bottom.

7. Sifter: For sifting the flour and icing sugar, you’ll need a fine-mesh sifter. This ensures that the ingredients are aerated and free from lumps, giving your batter and icing a smoother consistency.

8. Small Saucepan: If you’re toasting your pecans, a small saucepan can help you achieve the perfect level of toasted crunch, without overdoing it.

9. Pastry Brush: If you want to apply a thin layer of honey to the loaf before icing it, a pastry brush is perfect for even application.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Banana Pecan Loaf With Honey Icing

Mary Berry’s Banana Pecan Loaf is a beautiful combination of banana bread with a twist, topped off with a delectable honey icing. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this perfect loaf.

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Tin: Start by preheating your oven to 160°C (320°F) for fan-assisted ovens or 180°C (350°F) for conventional ovens. Grease your 2lb loaf tin with butter or line it with parchment paper, ensuring that it’s ready to hold the batter once mixed.

2. Mash the Bananas: Peel and mash your overripe bananas in a bowl until they’re smooth but slightly chunky. Overripe bananas will give the loaf a rich sweetness and a moist texture, so don’t skimp on the ripeness!

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and caster sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is essential for creating a light, airy texture in your loaf.

4. Add the Eggs: Beat the eggs one at a time into the butter and sugar mixture, making sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. This will help to emulsify the mixture and prevent the batter from curdling.

5. Fold in the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift the self-raising flour and baking powder. Gradually fold this into the wet mixture, adding a little at a time to prevent the flour from clumping. Be gentle to keep the mixture light.

6. Add the Bananas and Toasted Pecans: Carefully fold in the mashed bananas and toasted pecans. The pecans should be coarsely chopped so that they add texture to every slice of the loaf.

7. Bake the Loaf: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your loaf as it bakes.

8. Cool and Make the Icing: Once baked, allow the loaf to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to finish cooling completely.

9. Make the Honey Icing: In a small saucepan, heat the honey gently until it becomes more liquid. In a separate bowl, sift the icing sugar. Gradually stir the warm honey into the icing sugar until you have a smooth, glossy icing.

10. Drizzle the Icing: Once the loaf has cooled, drizzle the honey icing over the top. It should gently run down the sides of the loaf, creating a beautiful, sticky finish.

Expert Tips

1. Banana Ripeness: The key to an incredibly moist loaf is using bananas that are very ripe. The darker the skin, the more flavorful and sweeter they’ll be, giving your banana bread the best texture.

2. Toasting Pecans: To bring out the maximum flavor of the pecans, lightly toast them in a dry pan for about 5 minutes. This step enhances their nutty aroma and adds an extra layer of crunch to the loaf.

3. Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet, make sure you fold gently. Overmixing can result in a dense loaf, as it overworks the gluten in the flour.

4. Storage: This loaf can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days, making it a perfect make-ahead option. You can also freeze slices for up to a month.

5. Variation Ideas: Try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a subtle spice twist. You can also swap the pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different flavor.

Mary Berry’s Banana Pecan Loaf with Honey Icing is a timeless treat, combining the sweetness of ripe bananas, the richness of butter, and the delightful crunch of toasted pecans, all topped with a silky honey icing. This loaf is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even a light dessert. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is simple to follow, yet yields a stunning result that will leave everyone coming back for more.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Banana Pecan Loaf With Honey Icing

Mary Berry’s banana pecan loaf with honey icing is a rich and flavorful treat, perfect for afternoon tea or as a comforting snack. However, its versatility allows for numerous variations to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some easy modifications you can try to make this loaf uniquely yours:

1. Add Chocolate Chips: If you love the combination of banana and chocolate, consider folding in some dark or milk chocolate chips into the batter. The sweetness of the chocolate complements the banana flavor beautifully, while the gooey pockets of melted chocolate add a luscious texture to each bite.

2. Swap Pecans for Walnuts: While pecans add a rich, buttery flavor, you can easily switch them out for walnuts, which bring a slightly more earthy and robust taste. Walnuts also provide a nice crunch, making them a great option for a different twist on the classic loaf.

3. Incorporate Spices: If you’re a fan of spiced banana bread, consider adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or a pinch of ground ginger to the batter. These spices will infuse the loaf with warmth, making it even more inviting, especially during cooler months or festive occasions.

4. Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Butter: For a healthier variation, swap out the butter in the recipe for Greek yogurt. This substitution not only reduces the fat content but also helps make the loaf more moist while maintaining its tender crumb. Greek yogurt also adds a subtle tang, which balances the sweetness of the bananas.

5. Make It Gluten-Free: To make a gluten-free version of this loaf, simply substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to check the texture, as gluten-free flour can sometimes make the loaf denser, so a little extra baking powder or a pinch of xanthan gum may help maintain its lightness.

6. Add Dried Fruit: To elevate the loaf further, add a handful of dried fruit such as cranberries, raisins, or chopped dried apricots. The dried fruit adds an extra layer of sweetness and texture, making each slice even more indulgent.

7. Vegan Version: For those following a vegan lifestyle, replacing eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water, and using a dairy-free butter substitute, will result in a vegan-friendly banana pecan loaf. Additionally, you can replace the honey in the icing with agave syrup or maple syrup for a fully plant-based treat.

Each of these variations brings something special to the table, and experimenting with the ingredients can make this classic banana pecan loaf feel new and exciting every time you bake it.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Mary Berry’s banana pecan loaf with honey icing, like many baked goods, is best enjoyed fresh but can be kept for a few days with the right storage methods. Proper storage not only ensures the loaf remains delicious but also extends its shelf life, allowing you to savor it longer. Here are some best practices for storing leftovers:

1. Room Temperature Storage: If you plan to enjoy the loaf within 2-3 days, it can be stored at room temperature. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. Be sure to keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, as exposure to heat and humidity can cause it to spoil quicker.

2. Refrigeration: For longer storage, the loaf can be kept in the fridge for up to a week. Refrigeration helps to prolong its freshness, though it may cause the texture to become slightly firmer. If you plan on storing it in the fridge, make sure it is wrapped tightly to avoid the loaf absorbing any unwanted odors from other foods. Let it come to room temperature or warm it up in the microwave before serving for the best taste.

3. Freezing Leftovers: Freezing is a great option if you want to store the loaf for an extended period. Wrap the loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil or a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the loaf at room temperature, or warm it gently in the oven to restore its freshness.

4. Honey Icing Considerations: If you’ve already iced the loaf, it’s important to note that honey icing can soften over time, especially in warmer environments. To prevent this, store the loaf in the fridge if it has been iced, as the cooler temperature will help preserve the texture of the icing. If you plan on freezing the loaf, it’s best to freeze the plain loaf first and ice it just before serving for optimal freshness.

5. Slicing and Storing Slices: If you’ve already sliced the loaf, store the slices in an airtight container with parchment paper between each layer to prevent them from sticking together. This makes it easier to grab just one slice when you’re craving a treat, without having to defrost the entire loaf.

Following these storage tips will help keep your banana pecan loaf with honey icing as fresh and delicious as possible, allowing you to enjoy it over several days without sacrificing flavor or texture.

What Goes Well With Banana Pecan Loaf With Honey Icing

The beauty of Mary Berry’s banana pecan loaf with honey icing is that it pairs wonderfully with a variety of drinks and accompaniments, enhancing its flavors and making it even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas for what goes well with this delicious loaf:

1. Tea: A classic pairing for banana bread, a freshly brewed cup of tea complements the richness of the loaf perfectly. Choose a fragrant Earl Grey, which offers a citrusy and floral note that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the loaf. Alternatively, a mild green tea or a soothing chamomile tea can provide a gentle balance, allowing the flavors of the loaf to shine without overpowering them.

2. Coffee: If you prefer something a little stronger, a cup of coffee is an ideal companion. A medium or dark roast works beautifully with the loaf, as the deep flavors of the coffee pair wonderfully with the nutty pecans and the sweet banana. For an extra treat, add a splash of milk or cream to your coffee to mirror the rich and smooth texture of the icing.

3. Fruit Compote: To add a fresh and tart contrast, serve the loaf with a side of fruit compote or fresh berries. A homemade compote made from mixed berries, apples, or peaches, lightly simmered with a touch of sugar and lemon juice, provides a tangy note that cuts through the sweetness of the loaf. Alternatively, fresh sliced bananas and strawberries make a light and fruity side dish.

4. Ice Cream or Whipped Cream: If you’re looking to turn this loaf into a more decadent dessert, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold creaminess contrasts wonderfully with the warm, moist loaf, creating a comforting and indulgent treat.

5. Cheese: For a savory contrast, a small serving of soft cheese such as cream cheese, mascarpone, or ricotta pairs nicely with the loaf. The mild tanginess of the cheese balances out the sweetness of the banana and honey icing, offering a more sophisticated flavor profile. You can even spread a little cream cheese on a slice of the loaf for a richer, creamier experience.

6. Yogurt: If you’re in the mood for something a bit lighter, a scoop of plain or honey-sweetened yogurt makes an excellent complement. The yogurt’s tanginess adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet loaf, and its creaminess pairs perfectly with the honey icing.

With these pairings, you can elevate the experience of enjoying Mary Berry’s banana pecan loaf, whether you’re looking for a simple, soothing treat or a more indulgent dessert.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s banana pecan loaf with honey icing is a classic recipe that’s not only easy to make but incredibly versatile. With simple variations such as adding chocolate chips or switching the pecans for walnuts, this loaf can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary preferences.

When storing leftovers, it’s important to wrap the loaf tightly to maintain its moisture and flavor, with options for refrigeration or freezing if you want to extend its shelf life. And when it comes to pairing, the loaf’s rich flavors are perfectly complemented by a hot cup of tea, a scoop of ice cream, or even a dollop of whipped cream.

This loaf is more than just a sweet treat-it’s a comforting, adaptable dessert that can be enjoyed in numerous ways, whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or simply indulging in a cozy afternoon snack. Mary Berry’s banana pecan loaf with honey icing is a timeless recipe that promises to bring a little bit of joy with every slice.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients Needed For Mary Berry’s Banana Pecan Loaf With Honey Icing?

The main ingredients for this loaf include ripe bananas, pecans, self-raising flour, baking powder, butter, caster sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. For the honey icing, you will need honey, butter, and icing sugar.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Nuts Instead Of Pecans?

Yes, you can substitute the pecans with other nuts such as walnuts or almonds if you prefer. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

How Ripe Should The Bananas Be For This Recipe?

The bananas should be very ripe, with brown spots on the skin. Overripe bananas are ideal for this recipe as they are sweeter and provide more moisture for the loaf.

Can I Make This Loaf Without Honey Icing?

Yes, you can omit the honey icing if you prefer a simpler loaf. The banana pecan loaf is delicious on its own, even without the icing.

Can I Freeze The Banana Pecan Loaf With Honey Icing?

Yes, the banana pecan loaf can be frozen both before and after icing. For best results, freeze the loaf without the icing and apply the honey icing after thawing.

How Long Should I Bake The Banana Pecan Loaf?

Bake the banana pecan loaf at 170°C (340°F) for about 55 to 60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. If using a fan oven, reduce the temperature by 10°C.

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this banana pecan loaf gluten-free by substituting the self-raising flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to also check that the baking powder you use is gluten-free.

How Can I Make The Honey Icing Thicker?

To make the honey icing thicker, you can reduce the amount of butter used or increase the amount of icing sugar. Alternatively, chill the icing for a few minutes before spreading it on the loaf.

Can I Use Brown Sugar Instead Of Caster Sugar?

Yes, you can use brown sugar instead of caster sugar. Brown sugar will give the loaf a slightly richer, caramel-like flavor, which complements the bananas and pecans well.

How Should I Store The Banana Pecan Loaf With Honey Icing?

Store the banana pecan loaf with honey icing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If refrigerated, the icing may harden, so it’s best to consume it within a couple of days.