Description of this recipe
Snickerdoodle Banana Bread is a delightful twist on the classic banana bread, combining the beloved flavors of cinnamon and sugar with the moist, rich texture of ripe bananas. This recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides a comforting, homey aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes. With its soft crumb and a hint of tanginess from the cream of tartar, this banana bread is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Why you will love this recipe
You will love this Snickerdoodle Banana Bread for its unique flavor profile that marries the warm, nostalgic notes of snickerdoodle cookies with the lusciousness of banana bread. It’s easy to make, requiring just one bowl for mixing, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Perfect for breakfast, a cozy snack, or even dessert, this recipe is versatile and sure to please everyone in your family.
Introduction
There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the house, especially when it’s a sweet treat like Snickerdoodle Banana Bread. This recipe transforms the traditional banana bread into a delightful dessert that echoes the flavors of your favorite childhood cookies. The combination of ripe bananas, cinnamon, and a hint of cream of tartar creates a moist and fluffy loaf that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re looking to use up overripe bananas or just want to indulge in a comforting baked good, this recipe is your answer. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this delicious treat!
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Topping:
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the bread bakes evenly and rises properly. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with the melted butter. Use a fork or a whisk to blend them until smooth. Next, stir in the vanilla extract and the egg. Mix until everything is well combined and you have a homogeneous mixture.
Step 3: Add Sugars and Dry Ingredients
To the banana mixture, add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, cream of tartar, and cinnamon. Stir the mixture gently until all the ingredients are well incorporated. The cream of tartar adds a slight tang and helps to create a tender crumb.
Step 4: Add Flour
Gently fold in the all-purpose flour using a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix; you want to combine the flour just until there are no dry streaks. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so a few lumps are okay.
Step 5: Prepare Topping and Bake
In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter. Then, add the remaining batter on top and finish with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step is important to allow the bread to set properly and enhance its flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy your Snickerdoodle Banana Bread warm, straight from the oven, or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. For an indulgent treat, spread a layer of cream cheese or butter on top. You can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert!
Tips:
- Bananas: The riper the bananas, the better! Look for bananas with brown spots for the sweetest flavor.
- Storage: Store any leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for later enjoyment.
- Variations: Feel free to add in extras like chocolate chips, nuts, or even a swirl of peanut butter for added flavor and texture.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bread at the 50-minute mark to ensure it doesn’t overbake.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55-65 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 10 slices):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion
Snickerdoodle Banana Bread is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. Whether served for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, this delicious loaf is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Its easy-to-follow steps make it an excellent choice for bakers of all skill levels, and the end result is a moist, flavorful bread that you’ll want to make again and again. So grab those ripe bananas, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of pure bliss!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
Q1: Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
A1: Yes, frozen bananas work perfectly! Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
Q2: What can I substitute for cream of tartar?
A2: If you don’t have cream of tartar, you can omit it, or use an equal amount of lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute.
Q3: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A3: You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it’s a blend that includes xanthan gum for the best texture.
Q4: Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this recipe?
A4: Absolutely! Feel free to fold in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.
Q5: How should I store leftover banana bread?
A5: Store leftover Snickerdoodle Banana Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for longer storage.