Banana bread, that cozy staple that has a way of making any kitchen feel like a warm embrace, has been my go-to comfort bake here at Food and Meal. The allure of its sweet aroma and the tender crumb of each slice is something that I, Gobble, have fallen utterly in love with. As someone who believes that every recipe carries a story, I find myself enchanted by the simple magic that transforms overripe bananas, often neglected and on the brink of disposal, into a delightful treat that speaks of home, of patience, and of the beauty in second chances.
There’s a quiet joy in the ritual of making banana bread—a blissful pause in the day-to-day rush. As the mixer whirls and the batter comes together, there’s a sense of grounding, a moment where the only thing that matters is the alchemy happening right before my eyes. The reasons for wanting to make this dish are as numerous as the delicate specks of vanilla bean in the batter. Perhaps it’s the memory it holds of lazy Sunday mornings, or maybe it’s the way it bridges the gap between dessert and a hearty snack. Whatever the reason, banana bread always seems to understand, to offer solace without asking for anything in return.
In this blog post, I’ll be sharing my personal take on this timeless recipe—a banana bread that has been fine-tuned to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and moisture, with a whisper of cinnamon to elevate its homely charm. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone trying out their oven mitts for the first time, this recipe promises to guide you through each step, ensuring that what comes out of your oven will not just be food, but a moment captured in flavor and warmth.
Simple Banana Bread Recipe
Simple Banana Bread
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized browned bananas
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ ground chia seed
- 1 tsp. baking powder
- 1 tsp. baking soda
- 2 tsp. water
- 1 ½ vanilla extract
- 1 tsp. salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven into 350°F and lightly grease (with oil or cooking spray) and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Into a small bowl, incorporate chia seeds and 2 tbsp. of water. Leave it be for about 5 minutes to let the mixture achieve a jelly consistency.
- Peel the bananas and put them into a large mixing bowl along with the prepared chia seed mixture and a cup of sugar. Mash them using a large fork or potato smasher until all lumps are gone.
- Add the vanilla extract, baking powder, baking soda and salt and mix them well until they’re well combined.
- Add the flour gradually (which should be a 1/4 cup at a time) until you achieve a thick batter.
- Spread the batter into the baking pan and place the pan onto the middle rack of the oven.
- Bake for at least an hour and test using a toothpick or a knife. Add a few more minutes if the toothpick or knife doesn’t come out clean. Take note that the top the bread should also attain a deep golden brown coloring.
- When it’s cooked, place the pan onto a wire rack and allow the bread to cool. Finish!
Notes
Nutrition
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This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the Spoonacular Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.
Alternative Method: Baking Simple Banana Bread in a Microwave
For a quick and easy microwave banana bread, start by combining mashed bananas and vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat the mixture on high for 1 minute or until it becomes bubbly. Stir in sugar until well combined, taking advantage of the heat to dissolve the sugar swiftly. Beat in an egg and vanilla extract until the mixture achieves a smooth consistency. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms—exercise caution not to overmix. Optionally, fold in extras such as chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit. Grease a microwave-safe dish or silicone mold, ensuring it’s no more than two-thirds full. Microwave on high for 5-6 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips for making Simple Banana Bread
Cooking Tips
Indenting the bread with culinary tact, one might suggest gently folding in the flour rather than tackling it with voracious energy. This tender approach rewards you with a tender crumb, allowing the bread to rise with aspiration, rather than being weighed down by the burden of overmixing. Maintaining a light hand whispers volumes of care into the batter, ensuring it bakes into a loaf that is both moist and airy, an embodiment of the love with which it was crafted.
Moreover, there’s a certain unmistakable delight in personalizing your banana bread. The addition of walnuts whispers a subtle, earthy contrast to the sweetness, and the possibility of chocolate chips is akin to an unexpected smile on a dreary day—an injection of joy that can uplift the spirit. Such elements should be introduced as thoughtful friends might enter a home, with grace and without overwhelming the existing harmony.
As for the baking process itself, one counsels a watchful eye, guarding against the temptation of impatience. The correct degree of doneness teases forth its readiness through an aroma that fills the space with anticipation, and a tester inserted into the crown comes out clean, save for perhaps a moist crumb or two clinging as if to whisper, “I am perfect now.”
Equally important is the setting of the stage for savoring. The act of resting the bread before slicing into its tender breadth is not merely a tip—it is a gesture of respect to the craft, allowing flavors to settle and meld, enhancing the experience that awaits.
Serving Suggestions
Start your day with a glass of Almond Milk or Soy Milk, providing a dairy-free option that gently complements the nuttiness of the banana bread. For a brunch or late morning treat, Irish Coffee brings robust coffee flavors and sweet cream to balance the banana bread’s sweetness.
For a dessert-like option, accompany the banana bread with pieces of Sweet Mochi or Daifuku, introducing a chewy texture and subtle sweetness from this Japanese treat. Pairing the banana bread with a side of creamy Egg Salad enhances the richness of the eggs and mayonnaise, creating a satisfying contrast.
Consider Miso Soup as a lighter accompaniment, offering a savory contrast that cleanses the palate between bites of the sweet banana bread. For an unexpected but potentially delightful combination, enjoy a slice of warm banana bread with fragrantly spiced Persian Rice, creating a unique mix of sweet and savory flavors.
For an adventurous pairing, savor banana bread as part of a fusion meal with Dragon Roll or Nigiri Sushi, where the distinct flavors of sushi provide a savory counterpart to the sweet bread. To round off the meal with another dessert element, indulge in Apple Galette, where the light crust and tart apples offer a contrasting taste and texture to the moist banana bread.
FAQs about Simple Banana Bread
- Can I use frozen bananas to make this recipe? Yes, you can use thawed frozen bananas. However, their moisture content might vary slightly, so your cooking time may need adjustment.
- How long can I store leftover microwave Banana Bread, and what’s the best way to do it? You can store leftover Banana Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months. Reheat slices in the microwave for a warm, fresh taste.
- Can I make this Banana Bread with whole wheat flour for a healthier option? Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. Your Banana Bread will have a slightly denser texture and a nuttier flavor.
- Can I skip the sugar or use a sugar substitute in this recipe? You can reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute if you prefer a less sweet version. Keep in mind that the sweetness of the bananas plays a significant role in the overall flavor.
- Can I add other fruits to the batter, such as blueberries or raspberries? Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite fruits to the batter. Berries, diced apples, or even dried fruit can bring a delightful twist to your Banana Bread.
Conclusion
In crafting the conclusion for a banana bread blog post for Food And Meal or foodandmeal.com, one might reflect on the qualities that make banana bread a beloved treat. Known for its moist texture, sweet flavor, and the use of ripe bananas, banana bread serves as a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various settings, from a cozy breakfast to an afternoon snack or a sweet end to an evening meal.
Banana bread’s allure lies not only in its taste but also in its simplicity and the nostalgia it evokes. It can be a canvas for creativity, as bakers incorporate ingredients like nuts, chocolate chips, or spices to make their unique version of the classic recipe. Additionally, its ease of preparation makes it a great starting point for novice bakers or a fun, engaging activity for families to do together.
As we conclude this post on Food And Meal, we are reminded that food is more than just sustenance; it is a connection to culture, family traditions, and personal memories. Whether you are baking banana bread for the first time or it is your go-to comfort recipe, each loaf tells its own story through the hands that prepared it and the occasions it graces.
Regardless of the countless variations, one thing remains constant: banana bread is a timeless delight, bridging generations and bringing joy to our tables. We hope this blog post has inspired you to don your apron, mash some bananas, and partake in the simple pleasure of baking and sharing this homely treat. For those interested in further exploring banana bread recipes or other culinary inspirations, visiting Food And Meal (or foodandmeal.com) can offer a treasure trove of ideas to fuel your next kitchen adventure.
Hi! I’m Paula from the Philippines, the passionate blogger and skilled photographer behind Gobble the Cook. I also spearhead the media photography for Food And Meal in Vietnam.
I'm James F Anderson, a noted sous chef from London and a Le Cordon Bleu alumnus. My career began in a Michelin-starred Parisian eatery, where my blend of classic and contemporary cooking, using seasonal ingredients, earned accolades. Recognized in culinary publications and on cooking shows, I’m committed to mentoring aspiring chefs and delivering memorable dining experiences, marking me as a standout talent in the culinary world.