Banana Bread
Why Make This Recipe
Banana bread is a delightful treat that brings comfort and warmth to any kitchen. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Using overripe bananas not only adds natural sweetness but also helps reduce food waste. This recipe is easy to follow and yields a moist, tender loaf that will please everyone.
How to Make Banana Bread
Ingredients
- 2 overripe bananas
- ½ cup (125 mL) canola oil
- ½ cup (125 mL) milk
- ½ cup (120 g) caster sugar / superfine sugar
- ½ cup (110 g) brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups (225 g) plain flour / all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons (8 g) baking powder
- ½ teaspoon (3 g) salt
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 160°C / 320°F (fan/convection) or 180°C / 355°F (standard). Grease and line a 23 x 13 cm (9 x 5 inch) loaf tin with baking paper, leaving at least 3 cm (1 inch) overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the overripe bananas well. Add the oil, milk, sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt over the mixture. Stir until just combined, leaving a few lumps.
- Pour the batter into the prepared tin. Bake for 45-55 minutes or until the top is golden and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Banana Bread
Banana bread can be served warm or at room temperature. It pairs well with butter or cream cheese spread. You can also enjoy it plain or add some fresh fruit on the side for a lovely balance.
How to Store Banana Bread
Store any leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw it at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Tips to Make Banana Bread
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay.
- For a twist, add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
Variation
Feel free to experiment with this recipe! You can try adding chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch, or substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. You can even add cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes! Just thaw them and drain off any excess liquid before mashing.
2. Can I make banana bread without eggs?
Absolutely! Replace each egg with ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
3. How can I tell when my banana bread is done?
Insert a skewer or toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready!
Banana Bread
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful treat made with overripe bananas that results in a moist and tender loaf, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 overripe bananas
- ½ cup (125 mL) canola oil
- ½ cup (125 mL) milk
- ½ cup (120 g) caster sugar / superfine sugar
- ½ cup (110 g) brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups (225 g) plain flour / all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons (8 g) baking powder
- ½ teaspoon (3 g) salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 160°C / 320°F (fan/convection) or 180°C / 355°F (standard). Grease and line a 23 x 13 cm (9 x 5 inch) loaf tin with baking paper, leaving at least 3 cm (1 inch) overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the overripe bananas well. Add the oil, milk, sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt over the mixture. Stir until just combined, leaving a few lumps.
- Pour the batter into the prepared tin. Bake for 45-55 minutes or until the top is golden and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness. Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay. You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
