Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9x5 inch loaf pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking soda and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in mashed bananas.
4. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until just blended. Fold in walnuts if desired.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan.
6. Bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Serving Size: 10-12 slices
Nutritional Information: Per Serving (1 slice): Calories: 200; Total Fat: 9g; Saturated Fat: 5g; Cholesterol: 35mg; Sodium: 200mg; Total Carbohydrates: 26g; Dietary Fiber: 1g; Sugars: 14g; Protein: 3g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- Butter: Can be substituted with vegetable oil or vegan butter
- White sugar: Can be substituted with brown sugar, coconut sugar, or maple syrup
- Eggs: Can be substituted with flax eggs
- Walnuts: Can be substituted with any other nut or seed, or omitted entirely
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a chocolate banana bread
- Add 1/2 cup of dried fruit for a fruity banana bread
- Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for a spiced banana bread
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to use very ripe bananas for the best flavor
- If you don't have a 9x5 inch loaf pan, you can use a 9x13 inch baking dish instead
- For a crunchy crust, brush the top of the loaf with melted butter before baking
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a special treat.
Garnishes:
Top with a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
Pairings:
Pair with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a salad.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the top of the loaf is browning too quickly, cover with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
- If the center of the loaf is not cooked through, bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to use very ripe bananas that are free of any mold or discoloration.
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
- Make sure to use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the loaf before serving.
Food History:
Banana bread is believed to have originated in the United States in the 1930s, when people began using up overripe bananas in baking.
Flavor Profiles:
This banana bread is sweet and moist, with a hint of nuttiness from the walnuts.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a snack or dessert, or as a breakfast treat with a cup of coffee or tea.
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Taste: Sweet, Moist, Nutty, Banana, Banana-Flavored