Hey there! Picture this: It’s a chill weekend afternoon, you've got some bananas on the counter that are way past their prime, and you're in the mood to whip up something that’s both comforting and a tad indulgent. Don't worry; I've got the perfect recipe for you. It's all about turning those neglected bananas into the ultimate banana bread. This isn't just any banana bread, though. It’s loaded with mouthwatering bittersweet chocolate and your choice of pecans or walnuts, making it a delectable treat that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and satisfying. Whether you're a baking novice or a kitchen pro, this recipe is straightforward and foolproof. So, let’s turn those overripe bananas into your next baking adventure!
This banana bread comes together in no time and will fill your kitchen with the most inviting aroma. It strikes the perfect balance, especially if you're not too keen on super sweet treats. Of course, if you've got a sweet tooth, there’s room to dial up the sugar just a touch. Let’s bake a banana bread that’s destined to be your go-to, whether for a lazy morning breakfast, a mid-afternoon snack, or a little sweet something at the end of the day.
Ultimate Banana Bread Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 overly ripe bananas, mashed to mushy greatness
- 3 eggs
- 3/4 cup (180 ml) of canola oil
- ¼ cup (60 ml) of water
- ½ cup (100g) to 3/4 cup (150g) of sugar (adjust based on your sweet tooth)
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups (300 g) of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp (5 ml) salt
- 2 tsp (10 ml) baking soda
- ½ cup (75 g) bittersweet chocolate, chopped (or chocolate chips for ease)
- ½ cup (75 g) pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped
Instructions:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (176°C) and give a 9" x 5" (23cm x 13cm) loaf pan a good spray with some baking spray to avoid stick dramas later.
Grab a medium bowl and whisk together all of the dry ingredients (flour, salt, baking soda). This mix is going to make the wet ingredients shine, so set it aside for now.
In a larger bowl, it’s time to combine your wet ingredients (mashed bananas, eggs, canola oil, water, sugar, vanilla). Mix them up till they’re nicely blended.
Slowly add your dry ingredient mix to the wet ingredients, doing it a third at a time. Be gentle and don’t overmix; we’re after tender bread, not a banana brick.
Now for the fun part: fold in the bittersweet chocolate pieces and your nuts of choice, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
Pour your batter into the prepped loaf pan. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 55 minutes. Check it’s done by sticking a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, you’re golden.
If you notice the top getting too brown while baking, just put some foil over it and continue baking until it’s fully cooked through.
Once done, let it cool a bit before slicing up thick pieces to share (or not—your prerogative).
And there you have it! Ultimate Banana Bread that’s destined to become a recipe you’ll return to time and again. It’s the perfect excuse to let those bananas get a little too ripe and the ideal way to add a pinch of sweetness to any day. Enjoy baking this little delight; it’s guaranteed to bring smiles all around!