Ripened bananas, their natural sweetness deepened and complex, form the soul of this bread. Hints of vanilla and cinnamon dance through the air as it bakes, creating an aroma that beckons neighbors to the kitchen door.
The crumb is tender, the crust is a caramelized delight, and each bite is studded with the subtle crunch of walnuts, making for a symphony of textures that resonate with homely indulgence.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Number of Servings and Ideal Serving Size
- Servings: 1 loaf (approximately 12 slices)
- Ideal Serving Size: 1 slice (about 80 grams)
Essential Nutritional Information
- Calories per slice: Approximately 280 kcal
- Macronutrients per slice:Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
Ingredients
- Overripe bananas, mashed: 450 grams
- All-purpose flour: 250 grams
- Granulated sugar: 150 grams
- Large eggs, at room temperature: 2 (about 100 grams)
- Unsalted butter, melted: 113 grams
- Chopped walnuts: 100 grams
- Baking soda: 5 grams
- Ground cinnamon: 2 grams
- Vanilla extract: 5 milliliters
- Salt: 1 gram
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and prepare a loaf pan with non-stick spray and parchment paper.
- Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat together mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla until well blended.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture until just combined; then gently stir in walnuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Proven Tips for Culinary Success
- Use bananas that are brown and spotty; the more overripe, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
- Do not overmix the batter to ensure a tender crumb.
- Toasting the walnuts before adding them to the batter will enhance their flavor and crunch.
Anticipated FAQs
- Q: Can I make this banana bread gluten-free? A: Absolutely, substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.
- Q: How can I store the banana bread? A: Keep it wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Q: Can I add chocolate chips to the recipe? A: Yes, chocolate chips make a great addition. Fold in about 100 grams with the walnuts.