Banana Bread

Why make this recipe

Banana bread is a delightful and easy treat. It’s perfect for using up overripe bananas that you might otherwise throw away. This recipe is simple, requires common ingredients, and results in a moist, sweet loaf that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it makes your kitchen smell amazing while it bakes!

How to make Banana Bread

Ingredients

• 2 overripe bananas
• ½ cup (125 mL) canola oil
• ½ cup (125 mL) milk
• ½ cup (120 g) caster sugar / superfine sugar
• ½ cup (110 g) brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon (5 g) vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups (225 g) plain flour / all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoon (8 g) baking powder
• ½ teaspoon (3 g) salt

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 160°C / 320°F (fan/convection) or 180°C / 355°F (standard). Grease and line a 23 x 13 cm (9 x 5 inch) loaf tin with baking paper, ensuring there’s at least a 3 cm (1 inch) overhang for easy removal of the banana bread.
2. In a large mixing bowl, mash the overripe bananas well. Add the oil, milk, both sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined.
3. Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt over the mixture. Stir until just combined— it’s fine if there are a few lumps.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared tin. Bake for 45-55 minutes or until golden and a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean. Allow it to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to serve Banana Bread

Banana bread can be served warm or at room temperature. You can enjoy it plain, or spread a little butter or cream cheese for extra flavor. It pairs well with a hot cup of coffee or tea too!

How to store Banana Bread

To store banana bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Just slice the bread first and place the slices in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay good for up to three months in the freezer.

Tips to make Banana Bread

• Make sure to use overripe bananas for the best sweetness and flavor.
• Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are fine to ensure a moist loaf.
• Experiment by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for a fun twist on the classic recipe.

Variation

You can easily modify this banana bread by adding ingredients like chopped walnuts or chocolate chips. For a healthier version, try swapping some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas! Just thaw them, and mash them before adding to the batter.

2. How do I know when the banana bread is done?
Insert a skewer or toothpick into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean, the bread is done.

3. Can I make mini banana bread loaves?
Absolutely! Just adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes for mini loaves. Check for doneness with a skewer.