Banana Bread Recipe

 While not a traditional cake, banana bread is moist, flavorful, and pairs wonderfully with coffee. It’s an excellent way to use up overripe bananas.

Ingredients:

• 2 to 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• A pinch of salt
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• Optional add-ins: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans), chocolate chips, or dried fruit (e.g., raisins)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 4×8 inch (10×20 cm) loaf pan.
2. Mash the Bananas: Peel the ripe bananas and place them in a mixing bowl. Use a fork or potato masher to mash them until smooth.
3. Melt the Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop, melt the butter until it’s liquid but not boiling. Let it cool for a few minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the melted butter to the mashed bananas and stir to combine.
5. Add Sugar, Egg, and Vanilla: Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the banana-butter mixture. Stir well to combine.
6. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle the baking soda and a pinch of salt over the mixture, then gently stir. Gradually add the flour and mix until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
7. Optional Add-Ins: If you want to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit, fold them into the batter at this point.
8. Pour into the Pan: Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
9. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking time may vary, so start checking at around 55 minutes.
10. Cool: Remove the banana bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Slice and Serve: Once the banana bread has cooled, slice it into thick or thin slices, depending on your preference. Enjoy!

You can store any leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness. It also freezes well for longer-term storage. Enjoy your homemade banana bread!