Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
Add-ins
Instructions
Step 1
Start by mashing the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl using a fork until smooth.
Next, add the unsalted butter and mix well until the mixture is completely homogenous.
Step 2
Add the large eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla sugar to the banana mixture and mix until thoroughly combined.
Step 3
Now, it's time to add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and ground cinnamon.
Gently fold everything together to create a smooth batter, making sure not to overmix.
Step 4
Chop the chocolate and walnuts into small pieces.
Carefully fold the chopped chocolate and walnuts into the batter until evenly distributed.
Step 5
Preheat your oven to 170 degrees Celsius (340 degrees Fahrenheit).
Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and smooth out the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Servings
When it's time to serve your luscious banana bread, get creative! 🤩 Slice it into thick pieces for a generous serving, or cut them into bite-sized squares for a fun treat at your next gathering.
Dress it up with a drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. You can also serve it warm, straight from the oven, with a smattering of butter or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. 🍦
For those special weekend brunches, pair your banana bread with a cup of freshly brewed coffee ☕ or a refreshing glass of almond milk. Add some seasonal fruit 🍓🍇 on the side, and you have a delightful feast fit for any occasion!
Equipment
Having a good set of mixing bowls is essential for combining all your ingredients smoothly. Choose bowls that won't slide around while you mix!
A simple fork is perfect for mashing the bananas. Look for one with a sturdy handle for better leverage.
Accurate measurements are key to great baking. Invest in a set that's easy to read and use!
A non-stick loaf pan ensures your banana bread releases easily after baking. Consider a silicone pan for even better results!
To make sure your oven is at the right temperature, use an oven thermometer. It’s the first step to successfully baking your bread!
Variations
Want to mix things up? Here are some delicious variations to try! 🎉
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend. Make sure to use xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t contain it to help give the bread structure. 🌾
Vegan Option: Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flax meal + 2.5 tablespoons of water = 1 egg). Use coconut oil instead of butter for that rich flavor without the dairy! 🥥
Faq
- How can I tell when my banana bread is done baking?
Your banana bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs. If it's still wet, give it a few more minutes in the oven!
- What if my bananas aren't ripe enough?
If your bananas are not quite ripe, you can speed up the process by placing them in a paper bag for a day or two. You can also bake them at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes until they’re blackened and soft!
- Can I freeze the banana bread?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled banana bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months!
- How do I store leftover banana bread?
Store it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for about a week. Just be sure to cover it to keep it moist!
- Can I add other fruits or nuts to the recipe?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with your favorite nuts or even mix in small pieces of dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.
- What can I use instead of sugar?
You can substitute granulated sugar with honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup. Just remember to reduce the liquid in the recipe slightly to compensate!