Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9x5 inch loaf pan
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Cook the butter, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. In another mixing bowl, mix together the mashed bananas, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
5. Add the brown butter to the banana mixture and stir until well combined.
6. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
7. Fold in the chopped walnuts, if using.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a rubber spatula.
9. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50-60 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
1 loaf, about 8-10 slices
Nutritional information:
Calories: 280
Fat: 13g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 270mg
Sugar: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use salted butter instead of unsalted butter, but adjust the amount of salt in the recipe accordingly.
- You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
- You can use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts.
- You can use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
Variations:
- Add chocolate chips or dried fruit to the batter for extra flavor.
- Use different types of nuts, such as pistachios or hazelnuts.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced version.
- Make mini banana bread muffins instead of a loaf.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture.
- Do not overmix the batter or the banana bread will be tough.
- Let the butter cool for a few minutes before adding it to the banana mixture to avoid scrambling the eggs.
- Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.
Storage Instructions:
Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.
Reheating Instructions:
To reheat the banana bread, wrap it in foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Presentation Ideas:
Slice the banana bread and serve it on a plate or platter. You can also dust it with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate.
Garnishes:
Top the banana bread with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a dollop of peanut butter.
Pairings:
Serve the banana bread with a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or as a snack.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve the banana bread with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced breakfast.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the banana bread is too dry, try adding a tablespoon of milk to the batter.
- If the banana bread is too wet, bake it for a few more minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- If the banana bread is too dense, make sure to not overmix the batter and use fresh baking soda.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to use clean utensils and wash your hands before preparing the banana bread. Store the banana bread properly to avoid spoilage.
Food History:
Banana bread originated in the United States during the Great Depression, when housewives were looking for ways to use overripe bananas instead of throwing them away.
Flavor Profiles:
This brown butter banana bread has a nutty and caramelized flavor from the brown butter, and a sweet and fruity flavor from the ripe bananas.
Serving Suggestions:
Slice the banana bread and serve it warm or at room temperature with a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or as a snack.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A