π Banana Bread (from Africa!) Recipe
π Cook Time: 1 hour
π Prep Time: 15 minutes
π Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
π½ Servings: 8
π Yield: 1 loaf
Description:
This unique banana bread recipe hails from Africa and deviates from the norm by incorporating solid fat, specifically butter instead of oil, akin to cookie-making techniques. Despite its unconventional method, the outcome is undeniably delightful β a remarkably light, slightly indulgent, and moist bread. Prepare yourself for a taste sensation that marries the sweetness of ripe bananas with a hint of spice and richness.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 tablespoons margarine
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and grease a loaf pan generously with butter or non-stick spray. Alternatively, an 8×10-inch pan can be used.
- Cream the butter and margarine together in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Add the white sugar to the creamed butter mixture and beat until well combined and fluffy.
- Mix in the egg yolks one at a time until fully incorporated.
- Mash the ripe bananas in a separate bowl until smooth, then stir in the vanilla extract and milk.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture, alternating with the banana-milk mixture, until all ingredients are incorporated. Mix well to ensure a smooth batter.
- In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites until frothy and fold gently into the batter until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips over the top of the batter, gently pressing them into the surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If using an 8×10-inch pan, bake for approximately 35 minutes.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve the banana bread warm or at room temperature. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures!
This African-inspired banana bread recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic treat, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack any time of day. The addition of chocolate chips adds an extra layer of indulgence that will surely satisfy your sweet cravings. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to bake up a batch of this delicious bread that will transport your taste buds to new heights!