There's something irresistibly comforting about a warm slice of banana bread. This classic recipe is a go-to for using up ripe bananas and filling your home with a delightful aroma. It's simple, satisfying, and a true staple in any home cook's repertoire.
Bananas are the star of the show, providing natural sweetness and moisture. Ensure they’re ripe with plenty of brown spots for the best flavor. Butter adds richness and helps create a tender crumb. Baking soda is our leavening agent, giving the bread its rise. A pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor by balancing the sweetness. Sugar sweetens the loaf and contributes to its golden crust. The egg binds everything together, while vanilla extract adds a subtle depth of flavor. Finally, all-purpose flour provides structure to the bread.
Enjoy a slice of banana bread slightly warm, spread with a little bit of cream cheese or butter. It's also fantastic toasted with a drizzle of honey or paired with a dollop of Greek yogurt for breakfast.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 4x8 inch loaf pan. This will ensure your banana bread doesn't stick and bakes evenly.
In a mixing bowl, take your ripe bananas and mash them with a fork until smooth. The key is to break them down enough so they integrate seamlessly with the other ingredients. Next, stir in the melted butter, which should mix easily with the smooth bananas.
Add the baking soda and a pinch of salt to the banana mixture, stirring gently to combine. Now, incorporate the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well blended.
Finally, add the flour. Remember, less is more here — mix just until the flour is combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can lead to a dense loaf.
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth the top if needed. Bake for 60 to 65 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a tester inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, let the banana bread cool in the pan for a few minutes. This helps it set a bit more before you transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
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