Are you craving a warm, comforting treat but short on time? This incredibly easy banana bread recipe, made with cake mix, is your answer! Forget complicated recipes and lengthy baking processes. This recipe delivers moist, delicious banana bread in a fraction of the time, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous dessert cravings. It’s a fantastic option for beginner bakers and seasoned cooks alike, proving that delicious homemade food doesn’t have to be difficult. Get ready to enjoy this simple and satisfying quick dinner idea or delightful treat!
Ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 4 large ripe bananas, mashed
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This ensures your banana bread releases easily once baked.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas thoroughly. Add the vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is combined smoothly. Using ripe bananas is key; their sweetness and moisture are essential for a perfect loaf.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the cake mix to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to a tough bread.
Step 4: Incorporate Add-ins (Optional)
Stir in your choice of nuts and/or chocolate chips if desired. This adds delicious texture and flavor variations to your banana bread.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it after 50 minutes.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy. Once cooled, slice and serve. Enjoy this delicious homemade treat with a cup of coffee or tea!
Tips for the Best Banana Bread:
- Use very ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and moister your bread will be. Brown spots are your friend!
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough bread. Mix until just combined.
- Check for doneness: Use a wooden skewer or toothpick to test if the bread is baked through. If it comes out clean, it's ready.
- Let it cool completely: Allowing the bread to cool completely before slicing prevents it from crumbling.
Variations:
- Spiced Banana Bread: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Nut-Free Banana Bread: Omit the nuts for a nut-free version. Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are great alternatives.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top of the batter before baking for a decadent twist.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific cake mix and added ingredients. For a general estimate, one slice could contain roughly 200-250 calories, 10-15g fat, 30-40g carbohydrates, and 3-5g protein. This is an approximation and should be considered as such. For precise nutritional data, use a nutrition calculator and input the specific ingredients used.
This easy banana bread recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and easy recipes. It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a satisfying snack any time of day. Enjoy the delicious results of this simple homemade cooking adventure!