Easy Banana Bran Loaf Recipe ๐๐
Overview:
This Easy Banana Bran Loaf recipe is a delightful combination of wholesome bran, ripe bananas, and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar. It’s a perfect treat for breakfast or a midday snack. Plus, it’s low in cholesterol and protein, making it a healthier option for those mindful of their diet. With simple steps and basic ingredients, even beginners can whip up this delicious loaf in under an hour and impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup self-raising flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup mashed bananas (about 2 large bananas)
- 2 cups bran
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 404.3
- Fat Content: 0.7g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.1g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 93mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 98.5g
- Fiber Content: 4.1g
- Sugar Content: 61.9g
- Protein Content: 4.8g
Instructions:
-
Preparation: In a medium-sized bowl, soak the bran in water (or milk) overnight. This helps soften the bran and infuse it with moisture, resulting in a tender loaf.
-
Mix Dry Ingredients: Once the bran is soaked, add sifted flour and brown sugar to the bowl. Gently mix the dry ingredients until well combined. The brown sugar adds a subtle sweetness and helps to balance the flavors.
-
Incorporate Bananas: Add the mashed bananas to the bowl with the dry ingredients. The ripe bananas not only lend sweetness but also add moisture and flavor to the loaf. Mix everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
-
Combine Thoroughly: Ensure all the ingredients are well combined. This will ensure an even distribution of flavors and a uniform texture throughout the loaf.
-
Prepare Loaf Pan: Line a medium-sized loaf pan with baking paper to prevent the loaf from sticking during baking. This step makes for easy removal and cleanup afterward.
-
Transfer and Bake: Transfer the prepared batter into the lined loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. Preheat your oven to 200ยฐC (390ยฐF), then bake the loaf for approximately 45 minutes.
-
Check for Doneness: To ensure the loaf is baked to perfection, check it every 10 minutes after the 30-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the loaf is ready.
-
Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Serve slices of this delicious Banana Bran Loaf on its own or with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey for added indulgence.
Recipe Notes:
- For added texture and flavor, consider incorporating chopped nuts or dried fruits into the batter before baking.
- If you prefer a sweeter loaf, you can increase the amount of brown sugar according to your taste preference.
- Leftover slices of the Banana Bran Loaf can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Simply reheat slices in the microwave or toaster oven before serving, if desired.