Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Mash Bananas:
In a large mixing bowl, peel the ripe bananas and mash them with a fork until smooth.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
Stir the melted (and slightly cooled) butter into the mashed bananas.
Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Add Dry Ingredients:
Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture and stir in.
Gently fold in the flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
If you’re using nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in now.
5. Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
6. Cool:
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Best Banana Bread
Banana Ripeness is Key: The blacker and spottier the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter after adding the flour develops gluten, which can make the bread tough. Mix until the flour is just incorporated.
Testing for Doneness: If the top is browning too quickly but the center is still wet, tent the loaf loosely with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time.
Add-In Ideas: This recipe is a perfect base. Try adding ½ cup of shredded coconut, raisins, or even a swirl of peanut butter.
Enjoy a slice warm with a little butter for the ultimate comfort treat
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