Are you craving a warm slice of banana bread? This recipe is your go-to for a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with a tender, moist crumb. Perfect for breakfast, tea time, or a snack, this banana bread is easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into the recipe that will have your kitchen smelling heavenly and your taste buds dancing!
Ingredients
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/3 cup melted butter
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– Pinch of salt
– 3/4 cup sugar
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 1 loaf, serving approximately 8 slices. Preparation time is 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 60 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 150 calories, 5g fat, 27g carbohydrates, 2g protein, and 1g fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
- Stir in the melted butter until well combined.
- Add baking soda and salt, mixing thoroughly.
- Incorporate sugar, egg, and vanilla extract into the mixture.
- Gradually fold in the flour until just combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, consider using honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.
Serving and Pairings
This banana bread pairs wonderfully with a dollop of butter or a spread of cream cheese. Enjoy it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon treat.
Storage and Reheating
Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for a week. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop a slice in the microwave for a few seconds or warm it in the oven.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using unripe bananas will result in less sweetness.
- Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense texture.
- Not greasing the pan properly can cause sticking.
- Skipping the cooling step can make slicing difficult.
- Using too much flour can dry out the bread.
Helpful Tips
- Use very ripe bananas for maximum flavor.
- Mix in nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing.
- Wrap the bread tightly for optimal freshness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, frozen bananas work perfectly! Just thaw them and mash before adding to the batter.
How can I make banana bread healthier?
Substitute half the flour with oats, reduce sugar, or add nuts for healthy fats.
Can I add spices to the recipe?
Absolutely! Cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor significantly.
What should I do if my banana bread is too dry?
Ensure you measure flour accurately and avoid overbaking. Adding a bit of yogurt can also help.
Is banana bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour in this recipe.
Conclusion
This banana bread recipe is a delightful way to use up ripe bananas and create a comforting treat. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a perfect addition to any kitchen. Enjoy your homemade banana bread with family and friends!
Banana Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
- Stir in the melted butter until well combined.
- Add baking soda and salt, mixing thoroughly.
- Incorporate sugar, egg, and vanilla extract into the mixture.
- Gradually fold in the flour until just combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
