Are you ready to bake the most unbelievably moist and flavorful banana bread you've ever tasted? Forget everything you think you know about banana bread because this recipe is a game-changer. The secret ingredient? Mayonnaise! Yes, you read that right. Mayonnaise adds an incredible richness and unbelievable moisture that will leave you craving slice after slice. This easy recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike, offering a quick dinner idea or a delicious treat for any occasion. Let's get baking!
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 mayonnaise
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 3 medium)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This ensures your banana bread releases easily and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This simple step ensures even distribution of leavening agents for a perfectly risen loaf.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and brown sugar with the mayonnaise until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. The mayonnaise will emulsify beautifully with the sugars and eggs, creating a wonderfully rich batter.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to a tough banana bread.
Step 5: Add Bananas and Nuts (Optional)
Gently fold in the mashed bananas and nuts (if using). The bananas will add natural sweetness and moisture, while the nuts provide a delightful textural contrast.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on your bread during the last 10 minutes as ovens can vary.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the bread to set properly and prevents it from becoming soggy. Once cooled, slice and serve!
Tips for the Best Banana Bread:
- Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Overripe bananas are perfect!
- Don't overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough loaf. Mix until just combined.
- Check for doneness: Use a wooden skewer to test for doneness. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, it's ready.
- Let it cool completely: This prevents the bread from crumbling when slicing.
Variations:
- Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Add ½ cup chocolate chips along with the bananas and nuts.
- Spiced Banana Bread: Add 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon cloves to the dry ingredients.
- Gluten-Free Banana Bread: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Fat: 10-12g Protein: 4-5g Carbohydrates: 40-45g Fiber: 2-3g
This recipe for banana bread with mayonnaise delivers a moist, delicious, and surprisingly easy homemade treat. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a simple yet satisfying dessert, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!