Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth and lump-free.
Add the melted unsalted butter to the mashed bananas and mix until well combined.
Stir in the granulated sugar, large egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon (if using).
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and nutty flavor.
Pour the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.
Optional: Top the batter with additional banana slices for a decorative touch.
Bake the banana bread in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
If the top of the banana bread starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Once the banana bread is fully baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
Carefully remove the banana bread from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Prepare:
To prepare this moist and flavorful Banana Bread, start by mashing ripe bananas and mixing them with melted unsalted butter. Stir in granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, then gradually add the dry ingredients to form the batter. Optionally, fold in chopped nuts for added texture. Bake until a toothpick comes out clean and let it cool before slicing.
Preparation Time:
The preparation time for this Banana Bread is approximately 15 minutes, while baking takes around 50-60 minutes, resulting in a delightful loaf of goodness.
Servings:
This Banana Bread recipe yields one loaf, making it perfect for enjoying over a few days or sharing with family and friends.
Optional Variation:
For a tropical twist, add a half cup of shredded coconut to the batter before baking.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Banana Bread is a timeless classic that captures the delightful essence of ripe bananas. Its moist and flavorful profile, combined with the comforting aroma, makes it a beloved treat for all ages. Whether enjoyed on its own or with a slather of butter, this easy-to-make banana bread is perfect for any time of the day. So, embrace the sweetness of overripe bananas and savor the warm and comforting goodness of Banana Bread, creating cherished memories with every slice.
