The aroma of freshly baked banana bread fills the air, bringing comfort and satisfaction to anyone who catches a whiff. Moist, tender, and infused with the sweetness of ripe bananas, banana bread is a favorite among many. If you are looking for a tried and true recipe to satisfy your cravings, here is a simple and delicious banana bread recipe that you can try in the comfort of your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bread.
2. In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. A few lumps are fine as they will add texture to the bread.
3. Add the melted butter and granulated sugar to the mashed bananas. Stir until well combined.
4. Beat the eggs lightly in a separate bowl, then add them to the banana mixture along with the vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
5. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense bread.
6. If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts or chocolate chips. These will add a delightful crunch or a burst of sweetness to your banana bread.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading evenly.
8. Bake for about 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top of the bread should be golden brown.
9. Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
This banana bread recipe yields a moist and flavorful loaf that is perfect for breakfast, snack time, or any occasion. The ripe bananas provide natural sweetness, while the addition of walnuts or chocolate chips adds extra texture and flavor. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven with a slathering of butter or cream cheese, or wrap it up tightly to enjoy later.
Experiment with variations by adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, or incorporating other fruits like blueberries or shredded coconut. With its simplicity and versatility, this banana bread recipe is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection, pleasing both your taste buds and those of your loved ones.