Are you craving a warm, comforting treat that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this bread machine banana bread recipe! This recipe transforms overripe bananas into a moist, flavorful loaf perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon snack. It’s a fantastic way to utilize those bananas before they go to waste, creating a healthy and delicious homemade treat that's far superior to anything store-bought. Get ready to experience the joy of effortless baking with this quick dinner idea or easy recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 3 medium)
- Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions:
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Prepare your bread machine: Grease the bread pan lightly with cooking spray or butter. This will prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of your delicious banana bread.
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Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined to prevent clumping in your final loaf.
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Add wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Then, gently fold in the mashed bananas. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay!
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Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a tough bread.
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Add to bread machine: Add the batter to your greased bread machine pan, following your machine’s instructions for adding ingredients. If using nuts, add them now.
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Select the right setting: Select the "sweet bread" or "banana bread" setting on your bread machine. If your machine doesn't have a specific setting, choose a basic dough cycle followed by a bake cycle. Consult your bread machine's manual for specific instructions.
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Bake: Let the bread machine do its magic! The baking time will vary depending on your machine, but it typically takes around 1-1.5 hours.
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Cool and enjoy: Once the baking cycle is complete, carefully remove the banana bread from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Tips for Perfect Bread Machine Banana Bread:
- Use very ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Brown spots are your friend!
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough loaf. Mix until just combined.
- Check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean, it's done.
- Store properly: Store your banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for longer storage.
Variations:
- Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Add ½ cup chocolate chips along with the nuts.
- Spiced Banana Bread: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for a warmer flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Banana Bread: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: 250-300 Fat: 10-12g Carbohydrates: 40-45g Sugar: 20-25g Protein: 4-5g
Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy recipe for bread machine banana bread is a perfect addition to your collection of delicious dishes and best recipes. It's a quick dinner idea that’s also a healthy meal option, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade cooking!