Moist Banana Bread
Looking for a warm, comforting treat that’s bursting with flavor? This moist banana bread recipe is your answer! Made with ripe bananas, this bread is not only easy to whip up but also incredibly delicious. Perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert, it’s a versatile dish that will impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the recipe and make your kitchen smell heavenly!
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 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 1 loaf of banana bread, which can be sliced into about 8 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 60 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 200 calories, 8g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 2g of protein. This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork.
- Add the melted butter to the mashed bananas and mix well.
- Stir in the baking soda and salt.
- Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until just incorporated.
- If using, fold in the chopped walnuts.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- Bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, for a vegan version, replace the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use a plant-based butter alternative.
Serving and Pairings
This moist banana bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also enjoy it with a spread of cream cheese or a drizzle of honey for added flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply slice and warm in the microwave for a few seconds or toast lightly.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the batter can result in a dense bread.
- Using unripe bananas will not provide the desired sweetness.
- Not checking for doneness can lead to undercooked or overcooked bread.
- Forgetting to grease the pan can cause sticking.
- Skipping the cooling time may affect the texture.
Helpful Tips
- Use very ripe bananas for optimal sweetness.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing.
- Try adding chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
- Use a toothpick to check for doneness.
FAQs
Can I add other fruits to the banana bread?
Yes, you can add fruits like blueberries or strawberries for extra flavor. Just make sure to adjust the sugar accordingly based on the sweetness of the fruit.
How can I make this banana bread healthier?
You can reduce the sugar content, substitute with whole wheat flour, or add nuts for extra protein. Consider using applesauce in place of some butter for fewer calories.
Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely! Just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before using them in the recipe.
What should I do if my banana bread is too dense?
Ensure you’re not overmixing the batter and check that you’re measuring the flour accurately. Too much flour can lead to a dense loaf.
How long does banana bread last?
When stored properly, banana bread lasts for up to 3 days at room temperature or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This moist banana bread recipe is a delightful treat that’s simple to prepare and sure to please everyone. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, it’s a classic that brings comfort and joy. Happy baking!
Moist Banana Bread
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 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork.
- Add the melted butter to the mashed bananas and mix well.
- Stir in the baking soda and salt.
- Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until just incorporated.
- Fold in the chopped walnuts if using.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- Bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
