Are you craving a comforting, moist, and utterly delicious treat? Look no further than this perfectly sized 8x8 banana bread recipe! This isn't your grandma's banana bread (though she'd probably love it too). We've tweaked the classic recipe for maximum flavor and ease, making it the perfect quick dinner dessert or satisfying breakfast treat. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, ideal for both novice bakers and experienced cooks looking for a reliable, healthy and easy recipe. Get ready to enjoy the irresistible aroma of warm banana bread filling your kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 3 medium)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Optional Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-4 tablespoons milk or lemon juice
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8x8 inch baking pan. This prevents sticking and ensures your banana bread comes out perfectly.
Making the Batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and both sugars until light and fluffy. A stand mixer or hand mixer works great here.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in the mashed bananas and nuts (if using).
Baking and Cooling:
- Pour the batter into the prepared 8x8 inch pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Every oven is a little different, so keep an eye on it.
- Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents it from getting soggy.
Making the Glaze (Optional):
- While the bread is cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk (or lemon juice) until smooth. Add more milk for a thinner glaze, or more powdered sugar for a thicker one.
- Once the bread is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top.
Tips for the Best Banana Bread:
- Use very ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Those with brown spots are perfect!
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough bread. Mix until just combined.
- Check for doneness: Start checking for doneness around the 30-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
- Let it cool completely: This allows the bread to set properly and prevents the glaze from melting.
Variations:
- Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the batter.
- Spiced Banana Bread: Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves to the dry ingredients.
- Gluten-Free Banana Bread: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Around 250-300
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Protein: 4-5g
This nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients used.
This delicious and easy banana bread recipe is perfect for any occasion. It’s a delightful homemade treat that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!