Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- ½ cup white sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- ¼ cup white sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9x5 inch loaf pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the melted butter, white sugar and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. Beat in the mashed bananas and milk until combined.
4. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the banana mixture. Fold in the walnuts if desired.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the white sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.
6. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle with half of the cinnamon sugar mixture. Pour the remaining batter into the pan, and sprinkle with the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture.
7. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes in the preheated oven, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Serving Size: 8-10 slices
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 250
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 39g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Butter: can be substituted with coconut oil or vegetable oil
- White sugar: can be substituted with brown sugar
- Walnuts: can be substituted with pecans or almonds
Variations:
- Add ½ cup of chocolate chips or dried fruit
- Substitute the cinnamon sugar swirl with a cream cheese swirl
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the bananas are ripe for maximum flavor
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing
Storage Instructions:
Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat the banana bread in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the banana bread with a dollop of whipped cream
- Drizzle with melted chocolate
Garnishes:
- Chopped walnuts
- Powdered sugar
- Whipped cream
Pairings:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Milk
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fruit salad
- Yogurt
- Granola
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the banana bread is too dry, add a few tablespoons of milk
- If the banana bread is too moist, add a few tablespoons of flour
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before baking
- Store the banana bread in an airtight container
Food History:
Banana bread is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. It was a way to use up overripe bananas that would otherwise go to waste.
Flavor Profiles:
The banana bread has a sweet and nutty flavor with hints of cinnamon.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the banana bread warm with a pat of butter
- Slice the banana bread and top with fresh fruit and yogurt
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