This recipe takes your classic banana bread and elevates it to a richer, more decadent level. Perfect for a special occasion or just a delightful treat!
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large, very ripe bananas, mashed
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the mashed bananas one at a time, then stir in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in the chopped walnuts and/or chocolate chips, if using.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips:
- For an extra moist banana bread, use sour cream instead of milk. Substitute 1/2 cup of sour cream for 1/2 cup of milk in the recipe.
- Want to add some extra flavor? Try adding 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
- Freeze leftover banana bread for a delicious treat later! Wrap cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
Enjoy your rich and delicious banana bread!
