Health meal, low carbs meals, keto meal
in INSTANT POT DINNER RECIPES

CLASSIC BANANA BREAD

Classic Banana Bread Recipe

Banana bread is a timeless classic that transforms overripe bananas into a moist, flavorful treat. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast item, a snack, or a dessert, this banana bread is sure to delight. Adding chocolate chips or nuts is optional, but they provide an extra layer of texture and taste. Here’s how to make a delicious, classic banana bread.

Ingredients

  • ½ cup butter, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 3 medium-large (or 4 small) overripe bananas, mashed
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or nuts (optional)
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (for coating the chocolate chips or nuts)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

  1. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Add Eggs and Bananas: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until well blended.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

  1. Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense loaf.

Step 5: Add Optional Ingredients

  1. Prepare Add-ins: If using chocolate chips or nuts, toss them with 1 tablespoon of flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf during baking.
  2. Fold In: Gently fold the chocolate chips or nuts into the batter.

Step 6: Bake

  1. Pour Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
  2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
  3. Cool: Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Success

Choosing Bananas

  • Ripeness: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your banana bread will be. Look for bananas that are heavily spotted and overripe.
  • Mash Well: Ensure the bananas are well-mashed for a smoother texture in your bread.

Mixing

  • Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough loaf. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
  • Creaming Butter and Sugar: Properly creaming the butter and sugar helps incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a lighter texture.

Baking

  • Check for Doneness: Baking times can vary based on your oven and the moisture content in the bananas. Check for doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf.
  • Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.

Variations

Add-Ins

  • Nuts: Walnuts, pecans, or almonds add a delightful crunch.
  • Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet, dark, or even white chocolate chips can be used.
  • Dried Fruit: Raisins, cranberries, or dried cherries offer a chewy contrast.

Flavor Enhancements

  • Spices: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
  • Coconut: Stir in shredded coconut for a tropical twist.

Serving Suggestions

  • Plain: Enjoy a slice of banana bread as is for a quick and satisfying snack.
  • Toasted: Toast slices of banana bread and spread with butter for a warm, comforting treat.
  • With Toppings: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream, a smear of cream cheese, or a drizzle of honey for added indulgence.

Storage

Room Temperature

  • Storage: Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

Freezing

  • Freezing: Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

This classic banana bread recipe is a staple in any baker’s repertoire. It’s easy to make, versatile, and incredibly delicious. Whether you keep it simple or add your favorite mix-ins, this banana bread is sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with your favorite toppings – you can’t go wrong with this timeless treat