This recipe yields a moist and flavorful banana bread that’s perfect for a snack or breakfast.
Ingredients:
- Ripe Bananas: 3 medium, mashed
- Butter: 1/2 cup, softened
- Sugar: 1 cup
- Eggs: 2 large
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 3/4 cups
- Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Optional:
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in optional ingredients: If using, gently fold in the nuts and/or chocolate chips.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Variations:
- For extra moisture, add a tablespoon of sour cream or yogurt to the batter.
- Use overripe bananas for the best flavor.
- Sprinkle the top of the batter with a bit of sugar before baking for a crunchy topping.
- Get creative with mix-ins! Try adding chopped dates, dried cranberries, or chopped apples.
Enjoy!