Joy's Easy Banana Bread Recipe

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Cook Time: 60 minutes

This delicious and easy banana bread recipe comes together quickly with budget-friendly ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Here's a simple step-by-step guide to making this easy banana bread.

Easy Banana Bread Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt

How to Make Easy Banana Bread

Follow these simple steps to create a moist and flavorful banana bread:

1. Step 1: Gather all ingredients and preheat the oven to 325F (165C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, white sugar, egg, and melted butter. Stir until everything is well blended.
3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Step 4: Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.
5. Step 5: Pour the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
6. Step 6: Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Step 7: Remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

To store this easy banana bread: Place a paper towel at the bottom of an airtight or in a zip-top bag. Place the cooled loaf on top of it, then cover the loaf with another paper towel. Seal the tightly and store it at room temperature for about four days.

You can also freeze the banana bread for two to four months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and place it in the freezer.

Community Tips and Praise

"Very good simple recipe," says one community member. "Sometimes less is more. Great flavor and texture. I went with dark brown sugar. Looking forward to adding spices and nuts. Perfect!"

"Easiest and best recipe I have ever used," raves Anita Burian. "I made a large loaf the first time then started making mini loaves for gifting! Yummy!"

"I have used this recipe, faithful to the ingredients, for years and loved it," shares another user. "Yesterday, when I went to make it, I didn't have butter so I used some of my roommates ghee... OMG!!!! That just took an already fantastic recipe to a new level."

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Per Serving
Calories	225
Fat	5g
Carbohydrates	42g
Protein	3g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sodium	399mg
Sugars	24g
Calcium	9mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	155mg

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

Banana bread is a beloved treat that has become a staple in many homes, and Joys Easy Banana Bread recipe is one of the simplest and most popular ways to enjoy this sweet comfort food. While the recipe itself is quick and easy, theres a rich history behind this dish, as well as some regional variations and unique facts that make banana bread a cultural phenomenon.

Origin of Banana Bread

Banana bread first gained widespread popularity during the Great Depression in the 1930s, when Americans were looking for ways to make use of overripe bananas that would otherwise go to waste. The combination of readily available ingredients like flour, sugar, and eggs, with the naturally sweet flavor of ripe bananas, made banana bread an easy and affordable option. Over the years, banana bread has become a favorite comfort food, and today it can be found in homes, bakeries, and cafes around the world.

Regional Variations of Banana Bread

Banana bread recipes can vary greatly depending on regional preferences and available ingredients. In the southern United States, for instance, some people prefer to add pecans or walnuts, adding a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor to the bread. In parts of the Caribbean, bananas are often substituted with plantains to create a denser, slightly savory loaf. Additionally, some bakers in New Zealand and Australia have been known to add coconut or pineapple for a tropical twist. Whether enjoyed plain or with added ingredients, banana bread is adaptable to many tastes and traditions.

What Makes It Different?

Although banana bread may seem like a simple, straightforward dish, there are other similar baked goods, such as banana cakes and muffins, that often get confused with banana bread. What sets banana bread apart is its dense, moist texture thats achieved through the use of mashed bananas and the absence of any leavening agents like eggs or baking powder that are typically found in cakes. Unlike banana muffins, which are usually baked in individual servings, banana bread is baked as a single loaf, making it easier to slice and serve.

Where Is Banana Bread Typically Served?

Banana bread is a versatile food that is often served as a breakfast item, a snack, or even a dessert. Its commonly enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea in the morning, but its equally perfect as an afternoon snack or dessert after a meal. In many American homes, banana bread is often served at holiday gatherings or family reunions. Additionally, its a popular treat to bring to potlucks and bake sales. Some even enjoy it toasted with a pat of butter for an extra indulgent treat.

Fun Facts About Banana Bread

• The worlds largest banana bread was baked in the United Kingdom in 1997. It weighed over 2,000 pounds and was baked using more than 13,000 bananas!
• Banana bread is often considered a quick bread, meaning it doesnt require yeast to rise. Instead, it uses baking soda or baking powder as the leavening agent, which allows it to rise quickly and be baked in less than an hour.
• Banana bread was once considered a luxury item in the early 1900s because bananas were not widely available in many parts of the world. Today, bananas are one of the most consumed fruits globally, making banana bread more accessible than ever.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with your additions, banana bread remains a favorite for its comforting taste and simplicity. Joy's Easy Banana Bread is a great starting point, offering a delicious, no-fuss way to enjoy this timeless treat.

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