We Be Jammin' Jamaican Banana Bread Recipe

Cook Time: 60 minutes

Banana Rum Bread with Lime and Toasted Pecans

This moist banana bread combines the rich flavor of ripe bananas with a hint of lime and dark rum, topped with a crunchy pecan and coconut topping. Its the perfect treat for any occasion!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 egg
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup mashed overripe bananas
• cup milk
• 2 tablespoons dark rum, or rum flavoring
• teaspoon lime zest
• 2 teaspoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• cup chopped toasted pecans
• cup flaked coconut

Topping

• cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons dark rum, or rum flavoring
• 2 tablespoons chopped toasted pecans
• 2 tablespoons flaked coconut

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375F (190C). Lightly grease two 8x4 inch loaf pans.
2. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually add the sugar and continue to beat until smooth. Add the egg and mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. In another bowl, combine the mashed bananas, milk, rum (or rum flavoring), lime zest, lime juice, and vanilla extract. Stir until well blended.
5. Begin incorporating the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Start by adding one-third of the flour mixture to the butter mixture and mix until combined. Follow with half of the banana mixture, mixing until smooth. Repeat the process, adding another third of the flour, followed by the remaining banana mixture, and finishing with the last third of the flour mixture. Stir in the chopped toasted pecans and coconut flakes.
6. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about one hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Remove the pans from the oven and allow the loaves to cool for 10 minutes. Then, remove the loaves from the pans and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
8. While the bread is cooling, prepare the topping. In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, remaining butter, lime juice, and rum. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth, about one minute. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped pecans and coconut.
9. Spoon the topping over the warm loaves. The topping will firm up slightly as the bread cools.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	131
Total Fat	4g
Saturated Fat	2g
Cholesterol	13mg
Sodium	92mg
Total Carbohydrate	22g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Total Sugars	13g
Protein	2g
Vitamin C	1mg
Calcium	37mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	73mg

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

Jamaican Banana Bread is a unique twist on the traditional banana bread, infusing tropical flavors like rum, coconut, and lime into a classic recipe. The addition of these Caribbean ingredients adds a refreshing and vibrant depth of flavor, making it a delightful treat that's both familiar and exotic. In this article, we will explore the origins, regional variations, and interesting facts about this delicious bread, along with how it differs from other banana bread recipes.

History of Jamaican Banana Bread

Banana bread has been a beloved dish in many cultures, especially in tropical regions where bananas grow abundantly. The Jamaican twist on this traditional dessert likely arose from the islands rich culinary history, which blends African, Spanish, and British influences. The use of rum, coconut, and lime reflects the island's local ingredients and vibrant culture. Jamaican rum, in particular, is world-renowned for its distinctive taste and is often incorporated into various local desserts, including banana bread. Over time, this recipe has evolved into a popular choice for those seeking a more tropical and flavorful take on the classic banana bread.

Regional Variations of Jamaican Banana Bread

While Jamaican Banana Bread is a popular choice across the island, each region may have slight variations based on available ingredients and local preferences. In some versions, pineapple is added for extra sweetness and moisture, while others may opt for more rum for an intense tropical flavor. The use of coconut flakes and pecans is common, but these too can vary, with some cooks opting for different nuts or adding dried fruits such as raisins or sultanas. Regardless of the variation, the bread remains moist, flavorful, and a true representation of Jamaica's culinary flair.

How Jamaican Banana Bread Differs from Other Banana Breads

What sets Jamaican Banana Bread apart from other banana bread recipes is the infusion of tropical flavors. Traditional banana bread often uses simple ingredients like ripe bananas, butter, sugar, and flour, resulting in a mild, sweet flavor. In contrast, Jamaican Banana Bread incorporates ingredients like rum, coconut flakes, and lime, which enhance the bread's flavor with bold and zesty notes. The rum, in particular, adds a rich, caramelized undertone, while the lime zest and juice provide a tangy freshness that perfectly balances the sweetness of the bananas. These unique ingredients elevate the bread to a more complex and tropical treat that distinguishes it from its traditional counterparts.

Where is Jamaican Banana Bread Typically Served?

Jamaican Banana Bread is often served as a breakfast bread or snack, especially in Jamaican households and Caribbean communities. It can be found at local bakeries or served at festive gatherings, like family reunions or holiday celebrations. The bread pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea, and it's not uncommon to serve it alongside other Jamaican delicacies, such as jerk chicken or fried dumplings. Visitors to Jamaica may also enjoy this sweet bread as part of a traditional breakfast or with a side of fresh tropical fruit. Its rich, moist texture and bold flavors make it a favorite among both locals and tourists.

Interesting Facts About Jamaican Banana Bread

Did you know that banana bread was originally invented in the United States in the 1930s as a way to use overripe bananas? The popularity of banana bread spread quickly, and various cultures, including Jamaica, began to incorporate their own unique ingredients and methods into the recipe. Jamaican Banana Bread, however, is often made with dark rum, a key feature of the islands distillery industry, which has been operating since the 17th century. This gives the bread a deep, rich flavor thats hard to replicate. Additionally, the combination of coconut, lime, and rum in Jamaican Banana Bread reflects the tropical climate of Jamaica, where these ingredients are locally grown and widely available.

Conclusion

Jamaican Banana Bread offers a delicious variation on the classic banana bread, with its infusion of tropical flavors that bring a unique taste of the Caribbean into every bite. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat or as a snack with tea, this bread is sure to impress with its moist texture and bold flavors. The use of coconut, rum, and lime elevates the simple banana bread into something extraordinary, making it a must-try for anyone looking to add a bit of tropical flair to their baking repertoire.

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