Bread > Sweet Breads

Sultana and Banana Bread Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup sultanas (golden raisins)

Special equipment needed:
- 9x5 inch loaf pan
- Electric mixer (optional)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease the loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.

3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Add the mashed bananas to the butter mixture and stir until well combined.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the sultanas.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

7. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.

8. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely.


- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 50-60 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
- 1 loaf (about 10 slices)

Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 230
- Total fat: 10g
- Saturated fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 240mg
- Total carbohydrates: 33g
- Dietary fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 17g
- Protein: 3g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper flavor.
- You can use chopped walnuts or pecans instead of sultanas.

Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolate twist.
- Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical flavor.
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped dates for a chewy texture.

Tips and tricks:
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture.
- Don't overmix the batter or the bread will be tough.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing it to prevent it from falling apart.

Storage instructions:
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- You can also freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing.

Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the bread, wrap it in aluminum foil and bake it in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.

Presentation ideas:
- Slice the bread and serve it on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Cut the bread into cubes and serve it as a snack or dessert.
- Toast the bread and serve it with butter or jam.

Garnishes:
- Dust the bread with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar.
- Top the bread with whipped cream or cream cheese frosting.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts or dried fruit on top of the bread.

Pairings:
- Serve the bread with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or snack.
- Pair the bread with fresh fruit or yogurt for a healthy breakfast or dessert.

Suggested side dishes:
- Serve the bread with a side of scrambled eggs or bacon for a hearty breakfast.
- Pair the bread with a side of roasted vegetables or salad for a light lunch or dinner.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the bread is too dry, try adding an extra banana or a tablespoon of milk to the batter.
- If the bread is too moist, try reducing the amount of mashed bananas or increasing the baking time.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before preparing the bread.
- Store the bread in an airtight container to prevent contamination.

Food history:
- Banana bread originated in the United States during the Great Depression as a way to use up overripe bananas.

Flavor profiles:
- This bread has a sweet and slightly spicy flavor from the bananas, sultanas, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve the bread warm or at room temperature with your favorite toppings and sides.

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Taste: Sweet, Fruity, Moist, Nutty