Best Ever Banana Bread Recipe

Name: Best Ever Banana Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 80 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup mashed bananas; 0.5 cup vegetable oil; 0.33333334326744 cup buttermilk; 1.75 cups all-purpose flour; 1.5 cups white sugar; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.5 cup chopped pecans

Cook Time: 80 minutes

Banana Bread Recipe

Ingredients

2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup mashed bananas
cup vegetable oil
cup buttermilk
1 cups all-purpose flour
1 cups white sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
teaspoon salt
cup chopped pecans (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Gather all the ingredients.

Step 2: Preheat the oven to 325F (165C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Step 3: In a large bowl, mix the beaten eggs, mashed bananas, vegetable oil, and buttermilk together until well combined.

Step 4: In a separate large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.

Step 5: Stir the flour mixture into the banana mixture until just combined.

Step 6: Gently fold in the chopped pecans, if using.

Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.

Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Allow the bread to cool slightly before cutting into slices and serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	307
Total Fat	14g (17% DV)
Saturated Fat	2g (9% DV)
Cholesterol	31mg (10% DV)
Sodium	221mg (10% DV)
Total Carbohydrate	44g (16% DV)
Dietary Fiber	1g (5% DV)
Total Sugars	28g
Protein	4g (8% DV)
Vitamin C	2mg (2% DV)
Calcium	20mg (2% DV)
Iron	1mg (7% DV)
Potassium	127mg (3% DV)

Best Ever Banana Bread Recipe

Banana bread is one of those classic comfort foods that everyone can agree on. Whether you're baking it for breakfast, a snack, or a dessert, its sweet aroma and moist texture make it a favorite in many households. The Best Ever Banana Bread Recipe takes this beloved treat to the next level by incorporating buttermilk, which adds an extra layer of richness and moistness to the bread.

History of Banana Bread

Banana bread, a favorite quick bread in many kitchens around the world, has its roots in the United States during the early 20th century. While the exact origin of the recipe is unknown, it is believed to have gained popularity in the 1930s, especially after the invention of baking soda and baking powder, which made it easier to bake without yeast. As bananas became more readily available and affordable, people started experimenting with different ways to use overripe bananas. The first printed banana bread recipe appeared in a cookbook published in 1933, and since then, the recipe has evolved, with numerous variations emerging globally.

Regional Variations

Though banana bread is most commonly associated with the United States, different regions around the world have their own takes on the classic recipe. In some countries, banana bread is made with coconut, adding a tropical flair. In parts of the Caribbean, for example, bananas are often paired with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, making the bread a bit spicier. In New Zealand and Australia, the bread is sometimes made with a higher proportion of mashed bananas, making it denser and sweeter. The American version, especially the one made with buttermilk as in this recipe, tends to have a lighter texture and a more tangy flavor.

What Makes This Recipe Different?

While banana bread is a fairly simple recipe, this version stands out for its inclusion of buttermilk. This ingredient not only helps keep the bread moist but also imparts a subtle tang that complements the natural sweetness of the bananas. Additionally, the use of pecans adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, setting this recipe apart from others that may use walnuts or omit nuts altogether. The combination of ingredients creates a perfectly balanced loaf, with a tender crumb and a slightly crisp, golden crust.

Where to Serve Banana Bread

Banana bread is versatile enough to be served at any time of day. It can be enjoyed for breakfast with a cup of coffee or tea, as a snack with a dollop of peanut butter or jam, or as a dessert served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Its also a great addition to a brunch spread or a picnic. Some even enjoy it toasted with a pat of butter for an extra indulgent treat. This bread is often made for special occasions like family gatherings, holidays, or as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and neighbors.

Interesting Facts About Banana Bread

The earliest banana bread recipes date back to the 1930s and quickly became popular during the Great Depression when many people had overripe bananas they didnt want to waste.
In some cultures, banana bread is also known as "banana cake" because of its moist, dense texture and sweetness.
Banana bread is often considered a "quick bread" because it does not require yeast and can be mixed and baked in a short amount of time.
Bananas, which are high in potassium and fiber, help keep the bread moist and add a natural sweetness, reducing the need for excess sugar.
Banana bread has been a popular item for bake sales, potlucks, and charity events due to its simplicity and ability to feed a crowd.

Conclusion

With its moist texture, rich flavor, and delightful crunch from the pecans, the Best Ever Banana Bread recipe is a guaranteed hit in any kitchen. Its perfect balance of sweetness and tang, thanks to the addition of buttermilk, makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to make the most out of overripe bananas. Whether youre enjoying it fresh from the oven or as leftovers the next day, this banana bread is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

FAQ about Best Ever Banana Bread Recipe

To store leftover banana bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it by wrapping the bread in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with an equal amount of regular milk mixed with 1 teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes to sour before using it in the recipe.

To make this banana bread healthier, consider reducing the sugar by up to half, using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, and substituting the oil with applesauce or yogurt. You can also add extra fiber by incorporating flaxseed or chia seeds.

You can check if the banana bread is done by inserting a toothpick or a cake tester into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, the bread is ready. If the toothpick comes out wet, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes and check again.

Yes, you can use different types of nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or macadamia nuts instead of pecans. Simply chop them into smaller pieces and fold them into the batter as directed in the recipe.

Yes, you can use frozen bananas in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid. Overripe bananas, whether fresh or frozen, will give your banana bread more flavor and moisture.

Yes, you can bake this banana bread in a different-sized pan. If you're using a smaller pan, the bread may bake faster, so check it a bit earlier. If using a larger pan, the bread may take longer to bake, so keep an eye on it and adjust the baking time as needed.

Yes, you can double the recipe to make two loaves of banana bread. If you're using two pans, ensure that they are both greased and lined with parchment paper for easy removal. Keep an eye on the baking time, as it may need slight adjustments.

If your banana bread turns out too dry, it could be due to overmixing the batter, overbaking, or using bananas that aren't ripe enough. Make sure to mix the ingredients just until combined, check the bread around the 1-hour mark, and use very ripe bananas for optimal moisture.

To make this banana bread gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the baking soda and other ingredients are also gluten-free. If the batter feels too thick, add a tablespoon or two of extra liquid.

Comments

Julie Wilson

12/08/2023 12:23:47 PM

This has become my favorite recipe for making oil-based banana bread. Here's what I do differently: I prefer to bake it in a greased 13x9 pan and bake for 25-35 minutes. I reduce the sugar to 1 1/4 cups, add a generous tablespoon of vanilla, and include 2 tsp of allspice for extra flavor. Sometimes, I also mix in a pureed apple to reach the two-cup mark for bananas.

Gary Rivera

01/01/2023 03:54:47 PM

Delicious and Moist Muffins! I have made this recipe countless times, both as muffins (baked for just 20 minutes) and with a few tweaks. I use a mixture of half brown sugar and half white sugar, add a splash of vanilla and a dash of cinnamon, and sometimes opt for 1/2 cup of melted butter instead of oil, depending on my mood. The result is always incredibly tasty and moist!

Amy Young

08/22/2024 05:30:23 PM

I tried the recipe exactly as instructed and it turned out wonderfully. The banana bread was sweet, moist, and chewy. This will definitely be my favorite banana bread recipe from now on.