Welcome to a classic and timeless recipe that’s bound to delight your taste buds and warm your heart – the Joy of Cooking Banana Bread. Our banana bread recipe is a beloved favorite, cherished for its simplicity, rich flavors, and moist, tender crumb. It’s the perfect way to transform those overripe bananas into a delightful treat for your family, friends, or just for yourself. So, let’s embark on this baking adventure together!
Try More Recipes:
- Strawberry Crunch Cake With Golden Oreos Recipe
- Punaluu Hawaiian Sweet Bread Recipe
- Eggleston Cake Recipe
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: The recipe is beginner-friendly and yields fantastic results every time.
- Perfectly Moist: The ripe bananas keep the bread moist and tender.
- Versatile: You can customize it with nuts, chocolate chips, or spices.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a quick breakfast, a comforting snack, or a potluck dessert, this banana bread fits the bill.
What Is Joy Of Cooking Banana Bread Recipe?
This recipe is for making delicious, moist banana bread using overripe bananas, accurate measurements, and a few simple steps. It’s versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite add-ins. Just be sure not to overmix the batter, and use a toothpick to check for doneness. Once it’s baked to perfection, let it cool, wrap it for storage, and reheat for a warm, tasty treat. Enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a delightful dessert.
Joy Of Cooking Banana Bread Ingredients:
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 4 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
How To Make Joy Of Cooking Banana Bread?
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as it can make the bread dense.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for approximately 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Recipe Tips
- Use Overripe Bananas: The riper, the better! Overripe bananas are sweeter and add more flavor to your banana bread.
- Measure Accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient quantities.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently stir the batter; overmixing can make the bread tough.
- Test for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if it’s done. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Customize It: Add your favorite mix-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or cinnamon for a personal touch.
- Grease the Pan: Grease the loaf pan well to prevent sticking.
- Let It Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
- Wrap for Storage: To keep it fresh, wrap the bread in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
How To Store This Dessert?
In the Fridge: Store the banana bread in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap. It will stay fresh for up to one week.
In the Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap the banana bread tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a resealable freezer bag. It can be stored for up to three months.
How To Reheat Joy Of Cooking Banana Bread Recipe?
- Microwave: Pop a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Don’t overdo it; you want it warm, not dry.
- Toaster or Oven: Toasting or oven-warming is fantastic for a crispy edge. Use a low setting, and keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Skillet: Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat, and gently warm each side of your banana bread slice. It’s like giving it a hug in a pan!
- Grill It: For a fun twist, try grilling. Just a few minutes on the grill gives your bread a delightful smoky flavor.
- Air Fryer: If you’ve got an air fryer, use it! It crisps up the exterior while keeping the inside moist. About 2-3 minutes at 350°F should do the trick.
Remember, the goal is to get it warm without drying it out. No matter which method you choose, your banana bread will be ready for you to savor and enjoy.
What To Serve With Joy Of Cooking Banana Bread Recipe?
- Butter or Margarine: A slather of butter on a warm slice is pure comfort.
- Cream Cheese: Creamy and slightly tangy, it pairs perfectly with the sweetness of banana bread.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Drizzle a touch of honey or maple syrup for a sweet twist.
- Nut Butter: Try peanut butter, almond butter, or even Nutella for a nutty indulgence.
- Fruit: Fresh berries or sliced strawberries add a fruity contrast.
- Yogurt: A dollop of yogurt, Greek or regular, offers a creamy and tangy balance.
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or banana-flavored ice cream turns it into a dessert.
- Coffee or Tea: A hot cup of your favorite beverage is the perfect match for a cozy moment.
Mix and match to suit your mood – there are no wrong choices here!
Why Do You Need Baking Soda In Banana Bread?
Baking soda is essential in banana bread because it helps the bread rise and become fluffy. It reacts with the acidic components in the recipe, like the mashed bananas, to create carbon dioxide gas, which causes the bread to expand and become light and airy. So, without baking soda, your banana bread might turn out flat and dense.
Why Is My Banana Bread So Dry?
Your banana bread might be dry due to overbaking or using too many dry ingredients. Overbaking can cause moisture loss, while too much flour can absorb the liquid, making it dry. Ensure you follow the recommended baking time and ingredient measurements for a moist banana bread.
Can I Use Frozen Bananas For This Recipe?
Yes, you can. Allow them to thaw and drain excess liquid before mashing.
Can I Add Nuts Or Chocolate Chips?
Absolutely! Stir in 1/2 to 1 cup of your favorite add-ins when combining wet and dry ingredients.
How Do I know When The Bread Is Done Baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs when done.
Try More Recipes:
Joy Of Cooking Banana Bread Recipe Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 240
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 260mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 22g
- Protein: 3g
Joy Of Cooking Banana Bread Recipe
Description
“Make incredibly moist and flavorful banana bread using ripe bananas, simple ingredients, and easy steps. This classic recipe is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. It’s versatile, forgiving, and bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy the sweet aroma and delicious taste of freshly baked banana bread.”
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
Wet Ingredients:
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as it can make the bread dense.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for approximately 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Use Overripe Bananas: The riper, the better! Overripe bananas are sweeter and add more flavor to your banana bread.
- Measure Accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient quantities.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently stir the batter; overmixing can make the bread tough.
- Test for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if it’s done. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Customize It: Add your favorite mix-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or cinnamon for a personal touch.
- Grease the Pan: Grease the loaf pan well to prevent sticking.
- Let It Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
- Wrap for Storage: To keep it fresh, wrap the bread in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
Serving Size 1
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 240
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8g13%
- Saturated Fat 4.5g23%
- Cholesterol 50mg17%
- Sodium 260mg11%
- Total Carbohydrate 40g14%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 22g
- Protein 3g6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
