Are you craving a warm, comforting treat that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This browned butter banana bread recipe is the perfect answer. Forget bland, store-bought loaves; this homemade version is bursting with nutty, caramelized flavor and the perfect moist texture. It’s a fantastic recipe for beginner bakers, a quick dinner dessert, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let's get baking!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Butter
This step is key to the incredible flavor of this banana bread! Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook, swirling the pan occasionally, until the butter foams, then turns a light brown color and has a nutty aroma. This takes about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn it! Immediately remove from heat and pour into a heatproof bowl to cool slightly.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Add the browned butter (make sure it's cooled a bit to avoid cooking the eggs), sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Stir in the nuts, if using.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy!
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve. Enjoy this delicious homemade treat with a cup of coffee or tea!
Tips for the Best Browned Butter Banana Bread:
- Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough bread. Mix until just combined.
- Check for doneness: Start checking for doneness around 50 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Cool completely: Letting the bread cool completely allows it to set properly and makes slicing easier.
Variations:
- Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the batter.
- Spiced Banana Bread: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon of cloves to the dry ingredients.
- Streusel Topping: Make a streusel topping by combining 1/4 cup flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons cold butter, and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon. Sprinkle over the batter before baking.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 12-15g
- Protein: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This easy recipe provides a healthy and delicious option for breakfast, brunch, or a simple dessert. Enjoy the comforting aroma and delightful taste of this browned butter banana bread – a recipe sure to become a family favorite! Happy baking!