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 use 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.
- 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!