Moist, flavorful, and packed with delicious additions, this banana bread is the perfect way to use up overripe bananas! With raisins and toasted walnuts, it’s a treat everyone will love.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
Banana bread is a timeless classic that brings warmth and comfort to any kitchen. This particular recipe stands out due to its moist texture and rich flavor, enhanced by the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the delightful crunch of toasted walnuts. The addition of raisins adds a chewy sweetness that complements the other ingredients perfectly. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or toasting a slice for breakfast, this banana bread is sure to become a family favorite.
Introduction:
Banana bread is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug. It’s simple enough for novice bakers yet rewarding enough to impress seasoned cooks. The beauty of banana bread lies in its versatility; it can be enjoyed at any time of the day, whether as a hearty breakfast, a midday snack, or a delightful dessert. What makes this Ultimate Banana Bread truly special is the combination of overripe bananas, which provide natural sweetness and moisture, along with the nutty crunch of walnuts and the chewy texture of raisins. This recipe is not just about using up those browning bananas; it’s about creating something delicious that everyone will adore.
Ingredients:
- 3 very ripe medium bananas, mashed (about 1 1/4 cups)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1 cup walnuts, toasted, cooled, and coarsely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation:
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5 inch loaf pan by greasing it with butter or non-stick spray and dusting it lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
Step 2:
In a large mixing bowl, mash the very ripe bananas until they are smooth. You can use a fork or a potato masher for this task. The more mashed they are, the better they will incorporate into the batter.
Step 3:
Add the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar to the mashed bananas. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 2 minutes.
Step 4:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This will help create a light and airy batter.
Step 5:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense bread.
Step 6:
Gently fold in the raisins, toasted walnuts, and vanilla extract until evenly distributed throughout the batter. The walnuts should be toasted and cooled to enhance their flavor and crunch.
Step 7:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 8:
Bake in the preheated oven for 55–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the bread towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning.
Step 9:
Once baked, allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
This Ultimate Banana Bread is incredibly versatile. Serve it warm with a pat of butter for a comforting breakfast, or enjoy it as a delightful afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee. For a twist, try spreading a layer of cream cheese or nut butter on top. It also makes an excellent base for French toast—just dip slices into an egg mixture and cook them on a skillet until golden brown.
Tips:
- Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots or even black peels.
- Toast Your Walnuts: Toasting walnuts enhances their flavor and adds a lovely crunch to the bread. Just spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Chocolate Chips: If you want to indulge, consider adding a cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a delicious chocolatey twist.
- Storage: Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze slices for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your banana bread at the 50-minute mark. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
55-60 minutes
Total Time:
1 hour 10-15 minutes
Nutritional Information (per slice):
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion:
This Ultimate Banana Bread recipe is not just a way to use up overripe bananas; it’s a beloved treat that brings joy to any occasion. Its moist texture, combined with the sweetness of bananas and the crunch of walnuts, makes it a delightful addition to your baking repertoire. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or friends, this banana bread is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice (or two) of this delicious homemade goodness!
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just thaw the frozen bananas completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing them.
2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
3. Can I omit the walnuts and raisins?
Absolutely! You can leave them out or substitute them with other add-ins, such as chocolate chips or dried cranberries.
4. How do I know when my banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is done. If it comes out wet with batter, it needs more time.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just make sure to use two loaf pans and adjust the baking time as needed, checking for doneness with a toothpick.