4-Ingredient Banana Bread Recipe

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Cook Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 5 small ripe spotted bananas, divided (about 4 1/2 ounces each)
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon packed dark brown sugar, divided
• 2 cups self-rising flour

Directions

Begin by gathering all the ingredients you need for the banana bread. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Line a 9- x 5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, ensuring a 2-inch overhang on all sides for easy removal later. Set aside.

Next, mash 4 of the bananas in a large bowl using a fork until they are mostly smooth, yielding about 1 1/2 cups of mashed banana. Add the eggs and 1/2 cup of the brown sugar to the mashed bananas. Stir the mixture until well combined.

Gradually add the self-rising flour to the banana mixture. Stir gently until just combined, ensuring there are no dry streaks left in the batter. Be careful not to overmix, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it into an even layer. Slice the remaining banana in half lengthwise and place the banana halves on top of the batter, with the cut sides facing up. Sprinkle the remaining 1 tablespoon of brown sugar evenly over the top of the banana halves.

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes. To test for doneness, insert a wooden pick or toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready. If necessary, bake for a few more minutes.

Once baked, allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Use the overhanging parchment paper to lift the loaf out of the pan. Let it cool further on a wire rack before slicing.

Serve the banana bread warm and enjoy the deliciously sweet and moist treat!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition Fact	Amount per Serving
Calories	157
Total Fat	1g
Saturated Fat	0g
Cholesterol	31mg
Sodium	240mg
Total Carbohydrate	34g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Total Sugars	14g
Protein	3g
Vitamin C	5mg
Calcium	78mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	232mg

Servings per Recipe: 12

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind 4-Ingredient Banana Bread

Banana bread, as we know it today, traces its roots back to the early 20th century in the United States. The rise of quick breads coincided with the popularity of baking powder and baking soda, which allowed home bakers to create soft, sweet loaves without yeast. Overripe bananas, once considered waste, found a delicious new purpose in these breads. The simplicity of this 4-ingredient version reflects modern adaptations aimed at convenience, maintaining the classic banana flavor with minimal effort.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

While banana bread is widely associated with American cuisine, regional twists can be found across the globe. In the Southern United States, it is common to enrich the loaf with buttermilk or add spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. In tropical regions such as the Caribbean, rum or coconut is often incorporated, giving the bread a more aromatic flavor. This particular 4-ingredient recipe focuses on a pure, straightforward taste, highlighting the natural sweetness of bananas without additional spices or flavorings, making it universally appealing.

What Sets It Apart From Similar Breads

Unlike other quick breads such as zucchini or pumpkin bread, banana bread stands out due to its dense yet moist texture achieved by ripe bananas. This 4-ingredient version is particularly distinct because it uses self-rising flour and minimal sugar, allowing the banana to take center stage. Compared to traditional recipes that require butter, oil, or multiple spices, this recipe emphasizes simplicity while retaining the classic characteristics of a golden, tender loaf.

Typical Settings Where Its Served

Banana bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in many settings. It is often served at breakfast alongside coffee or tea, as a snack, or even as a casual dessert. Cafs frequently feature banana bread in their pastry selections, sometimes toasted with a pat of butter or a spread of cream cheese. Its simplicity makes it ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, and even packed lunches, providing a comforting and familiar treat for any occasion.

Interesting Facts About Banana Bread

• The invention of banana bread coincided with the marketing of baking powder in the 1930s, which revolutionized home baking.
• Ripe bananas are naturally sweet and add moisture, allowing recipes like this one to reduce or eliminate added fats.
• Banana bread gained popularity during the Great Depression, as overripe bananas could be used instead of being wasted, making it an economical treat.
• The 4-ingredient version has gained attention on social media for its ease, requiring minimal preparation while still producing a flavorful loaf.
• Unlike banana muffins, which are smaller and slightly drier, banana bread is baked in a loaf pan, giving it a denser texture and longer shelf life.

FAQ about 4-Ingredient Banana Bread Recipe

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