Banana Bread

Banana Bread

There’s something truly special about homemade banana bread. Whenever I bake a loaf of Banana Bread, I’m transported back to my childhood kitchen, the sweet aroma weaving through the air, wrapping me in warmth and nostalgia. Friends and family gather around, eagerly waiting for the golden-brown masterpiece to emerge from the oven. This isn’t just any recipe; it’s filled with love and memories, from the first ripe bananas that found their way into our shopping cart to the delightful moments shared over slices of this fluffy, moist treat. I still remember my grandmother teaching me how to mash the bananas just right, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. It’s a simple recipe, but every loaf tells a story, one that brings a smile to everyone who gets a slice.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 20 mins
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
70 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
250 kcal
Protein:
4 g
Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
Fat:
10 g
Tools Used:
10 x 5-inch loaf pan, Parchment paper

What Sets This Banana Bread Apart

It’s Comforting

There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm slice of Banana Bread. The comforting texture and sweetness envelop you like a hug, making it the perfect treat for any time of the day. Whether it’s breakfast or an afternoon snack, it always feels like home.

Great for Using Overripe Bananas

No one likes to waste food, and this recipe is the perfect solution for those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. Instead of tossing them out, transform them into a delicious loaf that everyone will adore!

Versatile and Customizable

One of the reasons I love Banana Bread so much is its versatility. You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of peanut butter to create your own unique version. The possibilities are endless, and each variation tells a different story.

Perfect for Sharing

Baking a loaf of Banana Bread is an excellent excuse to gather friends and family. It’s a crowd-pleaser and a wonderful way to spread joy. Sharing your fresh-baked bread is a loving gesture that can brighten anyone’s day.

Easy to Make

This recipe doesn’t require any fancy equipment or techniques. It’s straightforward and perfect for beginner bakers. Just mix the ingredients, pour them into a loaf pan, and let the oven do the magic!

Ingredients Required for Banana Bread

Banana Bread

The ingredients for Banana Bread are simple yet vital. Each one plays a key role in creating that perfect loaf. The bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, while the flour gives structure. Together, they form a delightful harmony that results in a fluffy, tender crumb.

  • Granulated Sugar: 2 cups (400g) adds sweetness and helps with browning.
  • All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups (250g) forms the base for our bread.
  • Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon acts as a leavening agent, helping the bread rise.
  • Baking Soda: ¾ teaspoon provides additional leavening and works with the acidity in the bananas.
  • Ground Nutmeg: ¾ teaspoon adds warmth and depth of flavor.
  • Salt: ½ teaspoon enhances the sweetness of the bread.
  • Medium Overripe Bananas: 4 (about 400g) are the stars of the recipe, offering natural sweetness and moisture.
  • Large Eggs: 3 bind the ingredients together, adding richness.
  • Salted Butter: 14 tablespoons (196g), melted, contributes to the moist texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: 2 tablespoons for topping to create a lovely crust.
  • Ground Cinnamon: 1 ½ teaspoons for added flavor.

Making Banana Bread

Banana Bread

Making Banana Bread is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with a wonderfully sweet aroma. Let’s dive into the steps that will lead you to bakery-worthy results right at home!

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare a 10 x 5-inch loaf pan by greasing it well. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground nutmeg, and salt. Ensure that everything is well-combined; this is where the base flavors come together.
  3. In a separate medium bowl, mash the overripe bananas until smooth. Whisk in the eggs until they are well-mixed. This mixture adds moisture and binds everything together.
  4. Pour the banana mixture into the dry ingredients from the first bowl. Gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are okay!
  5. Now, gently fold in the melted butter until it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter. Look for a mostly uniform mixture with no pools of butter left behind.
  6. Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Leave about ¾ inch of space from the top to allow it to rise.
  7. In a small bowl, stir together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter in the pan, creating a sweet crust.
  8. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick or knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid overbaking.
  9. Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes. This cooling step is essential for easier slicing. Afterward, turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Slice, serve, and enjoy your delightful Banana Bread warm or at room temperature! Each slice should be tender, moist, and bursting with banana flavor.

Things Worth Knowing

  • Banana Ripeness: Ensure your bananas are very ripe; the darker they are, the sweeter your bread will be.
  • Mixing Techniques: Avoid overmixing the batter to keep your bread light and fluffy.
  • Cooling Time: Allow the bread to cool in the pan before removing it; this prevents it from breaking apart.
  • Storage Tips: Wrap your leftover bread tightly to keep it fresh for longer.

Recipe Tips about Banana Bread

Banana Bread

Before diving into this delicious Banana Bread, here are some tips to ensure your baking experience is a success!

  • Storage: Store leftovers tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and enjoyable.
  • Freezing: Can you freeze this? Yes! Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag or airtight container. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
  • Variations: Feel free to customize your bread by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits. Each addition can create a unique flavor profile.
  • Serving Suggestions: This bread pairs wonderfully with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey on top for extra indulgence.
  • Gifting: Consider gifting a loaf to friends or neighbors. Homemade treats always bring a smile!

Serve This Banana Bread With

The beauty of Banana Bread is its versatility in serving. Here are some delightful suggestions:

  • With Coffee: Savor a slice alongside your morning coffee or tea for a perfect start to the day.
  • For Breakfast: Serve it as a quick breakfast option topped with a bit of butter or cream cheese.
  • As a Snack: It makes for an ideal snack when you need a little something sweet in the afternoon.
  • For Dessert: Top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delightful dessert treat.
  • Seasonal Pairings: During the colder months, serve with a warm beverage like hot chocolate or spiced chai.

FAQ

Yes, you can definitely use frozen bananas for Banana Bread. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing. The natural sweetness from overripe bananas will still shine through, giving your bread that delicious flavor.

A dense Banana Bread can result from overmixing the batter or using too many bananas. Make sure to mix just until combined and avoid adding more bananas than the recipe calls for. This will help retain that light and fluffy texture.

The best way to check for doneness is by inserting a toothpick or a knife into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your Banana Bread is ready. Remember that the bread will continue to cook slightly even after removing it from the oven.

Absolutely! Adding nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can enhance the flavor and texture of your Banana Bread. Just fold them into the batter before pouring it into the loaf pan for a delightful crunch in every bite.

Conclusion

The special thing about Banana Bread is its ability to bring people together, creating moments filled with warmth and smiles. It’s a treat that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also evokes cherished memories. I encourage you to try baking this recipe yourself. You’ll find that it’s not just about the ingredients, but the love and joy that go into making it. So grab your overripe bananas and let’s get baking!

Banana Bread

Banana Bread

The ultimate comfort food, this Banana Bread is moist, flavorful, and absolutely delightful. Packed with sweet bananas and a hint of cinnamon, it's the perfect easy weeknight treat. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with a little butter!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Desserts
Cuisine American
Servings 10 slices
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • 10 x 5-inch loaf pan
  • Parchment Paper

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cups Granulated Sugar
  • 2 cups cups All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 teaspoon teaspoon Baking Powder
  • ¾ teaspoon teaspoon Baking Soda
  • ¾ teaspoon teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon teaspoon Salt
  • 4 pieces Medium Overripe Bananas (about 400g)
  • 3 pieces Large Eggs
  • 14 tablespoons tablespoons Salted Butter (melted)
  • 2 tablespoons tablespoons Granulated Sugar (for topping)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons teaspoon Ground Cinnamon

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare a 10 x 5-inch loaf pan by greasing it well. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground nutmeg, and salt. Ensure that everything is well-combined; this is where the base flavors come together.
  • In a separate medium bowl, mash the overripe bananas until smooth. Whisk in the eggs until they are well-mixed. This mixture adds moisture and binds everything together.
  • Pour the banana mixture into the dry ingredients from the first bowl. Gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are okay!
  • Now, gently fold in the melted butter until it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter. Look for a mostly uniform mixture with no pools of butter left behind.
  • Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Leave about ¾ inch of space from the top to allow it to rise.
  • In a small bowl, stir together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter in the pan, creating a sweet crust.
  • Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick or knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid overbaking.
  • Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes. This cooling step is essential for easier slicing. Afterward, turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Slice, serve, and enjoy your delightful Banana Bread warm or at room temperature! Each slice should be tender, moist, and bursting with banana flavor.

Notes

  • Tip 1: Store leftovers tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Tip 2: To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag or airtight container for up to 2 months.
  • Tip 3: Consider gifting a loaf to friends or neighbors.
  • Tip 4: This bread pairs wonderfully with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey on top for extra indulgence.
  • Tip 5: Savor a slice alongside your morning coffee or tea for a perfect start to the day.
Keyword Banana Bread recipe, easy Banana Bread, homemade Banana Bread, moist Banana Bread

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