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Perfect Banana Bread

A warm and easy recipe for banana bread that transforms overripe bananas into a delicious, comforting treat, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour Swap half with whole wheat for a slightly nutty, healthy option.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon Optional for added warmth.
Wet Ingredients
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly Coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free option.
  • 0.75 cups granulated sugar Brown sugar gives a molasses note, if preferred.
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 3 very ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/2 cups); the riper, the sweeter.
Optional Add-ins
  • 0.5 cups chopped walnuts or pecans Can be substituted with chocolate chips.
  • 1 zest orange Optional; brightens the loaf.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Mixing
  1. In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and sugar until glossy. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking until combined, then stir in the vanilla and mashed bananas.
  2. Fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture with a spatula until just combined.
  3. Fold in the nuts or chocolate chips, and orange zest if using.
Baking
  1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
  2. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  3. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift it out and cool completely on a wire rack.

Notes

For gluten-free, use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend and add an extra egg. For lower sugar, halve the sugar and add 2 tablespoons of applesauce.