Are you craving a deliciously moist and flavorful bread that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Vanilla Pudding Banana Bread recipe is a game-changer. It combines the classic sweetness of banana bread with the creamy indulgence of vanilla pudding, resulting in a truly unforgettable treat. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, an afternoon snack, or even dessert, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting your homemade cooking journey. It's one of those easy recipes that always delivers amazing results.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (3.4 ounce) instant vanilla pudding mix (not the cooked type)
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 3 medium)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This ensures your bread releases easily once baked.
Step 2: Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This simple step helps distribute the leavening agents evenly.
Step 3: Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a tough bread.
Step 5: Pudding & Bananas
Stir in the instant vanilla pudding mix and mashed bananas. The pudding adds incredible moisture and a delightful creamy texture.
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.
Step 7: Cool & Enjoy
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and serve. This delicious banana bread is best enjoyed slightly warm, but it’s also great at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Vanilla Pudding Banana Bread:
- Ripe Bananas are Key: Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture. The browner, the better!
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough bread. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Check for Doneness: Start checking for doneness around 50 minutes. Every oven is different.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.
Variations:
- Chocolate Chip: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent twist.
- Nutty Delight: Stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
- Spiced Up: Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg for a warm, comforting aroma.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: Around 250-300 Fat: 10-15g Carbohydrates: 35-45g Protein: 4-6g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This Vanilla Pudding Banana Bread recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It's a delicious dish that's easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy baking and savoring this delightful treat!