Banana bread is more than just a baked treat; it's a comforting slice of nostalgia and a delightful way to use up those overripe bananas. In this blog post, we'll take you on a journey through the world of banana bread, sharing tips, tricks, and mouth-watering recipes that will elevate your baking game. Get ready to transform those brown bananas into golden loaves of goodness and embrace the sustainability of reducing food waste by repurposing ripe produce!
Ingredients:
- 2 to 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 240-360 grams)
- 75 grams unsalted butter, melted
- 150 grams of granulated sugar
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- A pinch of salt
- 225 grams of plain flour
- Optional mix-ins: 75 grams of chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans) or 75 grams of chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 10x20cm (or similar) loaf pan.
- Mash the Bananas: In a mixing bowl, peel and mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, melt the butter in the microwave or stovetop until it’s melted but not too hot. Add the mashed bananas and mix well. Stir in the beaten egg and vanilla extract.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle the baking soda and a pinch of salt over the banana mixture in the same bowl. Gently stir to combine. Then, slowly add the flour, mixing until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are fine. If you're adding nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in at this point.
- Transfer to Pan: Pour the banana bread batter into the greased loaf pan.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 65 minutes or until a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the centre comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
- Cool: Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and Serve: Once the banana bread has cooled, slice it into thick, delicious slices, and serve!
Enjoy your homemade banana bread as a delightful snack, breakfast treat, or dessert!