Banana bread is the ultimate comfort food, beloved for its moist texture and rich banana flavor. This classic recipe takes it up a notch by incorporating toasted walnuts and sweet raisins, adding a delightful crunch and burst of flavor. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert, this banana bread is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a novice baker or an expert, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through your home!
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed with a fork
- ½ cup butter (1 stick) at room temperature
- 3/4 cup white sugar (or 1 scant cup of honey)
- 2 eggs, room temperature
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp real vanilla extract
- 1 cup walnuts, toasted and coarsely chopped
- ½ cup raisins
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.
- Prepare the Bananas:
- In a bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Set aside.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar (or honey) together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Mix Together:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the toasted walnuts and raisins.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool:
- Remove from the oven and let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy warm with a pat of butter.
- Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt for breakfast.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon snack.
Cooking Tips:
- Use ripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness.
- To toast walnuts, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Ensure the eggs and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing and a better texture.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Bananas: Provide potassium, fiber, and natural sweetness.
- Walnuts: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and antioxidants.
- Raisins: Add natural sweetness and are a good source of iron.
Dietary Information:
- Contains: Dairy, eggs, and nuts.
- Gluten-Free Option: Can be made gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Storage:
- Store any leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to make with simple ingredients.
- Perfectly moist and flavorful with the addition of walnuts and raisins.
- A versatile recipe that can be enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert.
- The comforting taste of homemade banana bread that everyone loves.
Conclusion:
This Best Banana Bread recipe is a classic favorite, made even better with the addition of toasted walnuts and raisins. Follow these simple steps to create a moist, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delightful taste and comforting aroma of freshly baked banana bread!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, frozen bananas work well. Make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing them. - Can I replace the butter with oil?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with an equal amount of vegetable oil or coconut oil for a slightly different texture and flavor. - How can I make this banana bread gluten-free?
Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binding agent for the best results. - Can I add other mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruits?
Absolutely! You can add up to 1 cup of your favorite mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped pecans. - What can I use instead of raisins?
You can substitute raisins with other dried fruits like cranberries, chopped dates, or apricots. - Can I make this banana bread vegan?
To make it vegan, replace the butter with vegan margarine or oil, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg), and substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. - Why is my banana bread dense?
Overmixing the batter can result in dense banana bread. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture. - Can I bake this banana bread in muffin tins?
Yes, you can make banana muffins! Adjust the baking time to 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. - How do I store banana bread to keep it moist?
Wrap the bread in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also refrigerate or freeze it for longer storage. - Can I omit the walnuts or raisins?
Yes, you can omit them if you prefer a plain banana bread or have dietary restrictions. The bread will still be delicious without them!