Classic Banana Bread ππ
Overview:
This Classic Banana Bread recipe is a delightful treat discovered in the September 2003 issue of Cooking Light. With a slight twist of using vanilla yogurt instead of plain, it yields a wonderfully moist bread that’s both easy and satisfying to bake. Whether you’re gearing up for a brunch, feeding a large group, or just craving a healthy and fruity snack, this bread fits the bill! π
Time Table β²οΈ:
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 5 minutes | 1 hour | 1 hour 5 minutes |
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 bananas)
- 1/3 cup plain low-fat yogurt (or vanilla yogurt for a twist!)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 178.4
- Fat: 4.3g
- Saturated Fat: 2.4g
- Cholesterol: 35.6mg
- Sodium: 194.3mg
- Carbohydrates: 32.1g
- Fiber: 0.9g
- Sugar: 16.8g
- Protein: 3.3g
Instructions:
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Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). This ensures the perfect temperature for baking your delightful banana bread.
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Prepare Dry Ingredients: Using a dry measuring cup, lightly spoon the all-purpose flour into the cup, then level it off with a knife. In a bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Give it a good mix using a whisk to ensure even distribution of these dry ingredients.
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Cream Sugar and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, place the sugar and butter. Use a mixer at medium speed to beat them together until well blended, which should take about a minute or so.
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Add Eggs: One by one, crack in the eggs, beating well after each addition. This step ensures a smooth and creamy batter.
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Mix in Banana and Yogurt: Now, add the mashed bananas, the yogurt (either plain or vanilla for that extra flavor), and the vanilla extract. Beat everything together until well blended, creating a fragrant and flavorful mixture.
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Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Beat at low speed, just until everything is moistened. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough texture.
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Bake to Perfection: Grease an 8 1/2 x 4 1/2-inch loaf pan with cooking spray. Spoon your beautifully blended batter into the pan, spreading it evenly.
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Time to Bake: Place the pan into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 1 hour. To check for doneness, insert a wooden pick into the center; it should come out clean when your bread is perfectly baked.
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Cooling Stage: Once baked to golden perfection, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes on a wire rack. This helps it set before you take it out.
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Enjoy the Aroma: Ah, the scent of freshly baked banana bread! Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool completely on the wire rack.
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Slice and Serve: Once cooled, slice into thick, luscious pieces. Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee for breakfast, as a quick snack, or as a delightful dessert after dinner.
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Share and Delight: This recipe yields one loaf of pure banana bliss. Share it with loved ones or keep it all to yourself for a cozy treat throughout the week.
Serving Tips:
- Serve slices of this Classic Banana Bread with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up.
- For a decadent treat, toast slices of the bread and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Variations:
- Nutty Twist: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch.
- Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Fold in a cup of chocolate chips into the batter for a chocolatey indulgence.
- Spice it Up: Sprinkle in a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy, aromatic flavor.
Storage:
- Store any leftovers (if there are any!) in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently reheat in the oven for a warm, comforting treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Moist and Flavorful: The combination of ripe bananas and yogurt creates a wonderfully moist texture that’s packed with flavor.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Versatile: Enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, as a snack, or even as a dessert. This banana bread fits any occasion!
- Healthy Twist: Using low-fat yogurt keeps this treat on the lighter side, perfect for those watching their fat intake.
- Family Favorite: A recipe that has stood the test of time since 2003, loved by many for its deliciousness and simplicity.
So there you have it! A timeless Classic Banana Bread recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whip up a loaf, savor the aroma as it bakes, and indulge in each delightful bite. πβ¨
