Ada's Scrumptious Home Cooking: Delicious and Easy Recipes

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon of baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup of granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup of brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
  • 1 cup of mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
  • 1/4 cup of yogurt
  • 1 cup of chopped nuts (optional)

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
  5. Mix in the mashed bananas.
  6. Gradually add the flour mixture to the banana mixture, alternating with the yogurt, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Stir just until combined.
  7. Fold in the chopped nuts, if using.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre of the loaf comes out clean.
  10. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tools for making

  • Mixing bowls - You'll need at least two mixing bowls to combine and mix the ingredients.
  • Whisk - A whisk will help you to thoroughly combine the ingredients and remove any lumps.
  • Spatula - A spatula will be useful for scraping the sides of the bowl and folding in the nuts, if using.
  • 9x5 inch loaf pan - This pan will be used to bake the banana bread.
  • Measuring cups and spoons - You'll need measuring cups and spoons to accurately measure the ingredients.
  • Wire rack - A wire rack is essential for cooling the banana bread and allowing air to circulate around it.
  • Oven mitts - To protect your hands when handling hot pans and dishes.

Recipe variations

  • Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
  • Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or chopped chocolate for a chocolate banana bread.
  • Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
  • Replace the nuts with dried fruits such as raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates.
  • Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a warm and aromatic flavor.
  • Replace the yogurt with sour cream or buttermilk for a tangier taste.
  • Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a refreshing citrus flavor.
  • Add a swirl of Nutella or peanut butter to the batter for a rich and indulgent twist.
  • Replace the butter with an equal amount of coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
  • Replace the eggs with flax eggs or applesauce for a vegan version.

Recipe overview

Get ready to bake the most delicious banana bread you've ever tasted. This recipe is simple and straightforward, so even novice bakers can nail it on their first try. You'll start by combining the dry ingredients before creaming together butter and sugars until they're light and fluffy. Then, you'll add in eggs, fragrant vanilla extract, and ripe, mashed bananas for that classic banana bread flavor. The addition of yogurt makes this bread incredibly moist and tender. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even fold in some chopped nuts for a bit of crunch. Once the batter is ready, it goes into the oven for about an hour. The result? A beautifully risen, golden brown loaf that's irresistibly sweet and perfectly moist. This banana bread is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack anytime you're craving something sweet. Enjoy it warm, fresh out of the oven, or let it cool and save it for later. The choice is yours, and either way, it's going to be delicious.

Common questions

  1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour in this recipe. Keep in mind that the texture and taste may be slightly different.
  2. Can I omit the nuts? Absolutely! The chopped nuts are optional in this recipe. Feel free to leave them out if you prefer a nut-free banana bread.
  3. How do I know when the banana bread is done baking? You can insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is done. If there is wet batter clinging to the toothpick, it needs more time in the oven.
  4. Can I freeze this banana bread? Yes, you can freeze this banana bread. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  5. Can I use margarine or oil instead of butter? While butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can substitute margarine or oil if desired. Keep in mind that it may alter the taste and texture slightly.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowls - These will be needed to mix the ingredients together.
  • Whisk - Use a whisk to combine the wet and dry ingredients smoothly.
  • Electric Mixer - This will make it easier to cream the butter and sugars together.
  • Loaf Pan - The batter will be poured into this pan for baking.
  • Cooling Rack - This will help the loaf cool evenly and prevent it from becoming soggy.
  • Spatula - Use a spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl and transfer the batter to the loaf pan.
  • Toothpick - This will be used to test the doneness of the loaf by inserting it into the center.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons - Use these to accurately measure the ingredients.

Origin stories

Banana bread, a beloved classic, became a go-to recipe in American households during the Great Depression. The reason behind its popularity was twofold. First, it provided a way to make use of overripe bananas that would otherwise go to waste, a practice critical in a time of economic hardship. Second, the introduction of baking soda and baking powder, which made it possible to bake bread without yeast, opened up a new world of sweet, quick breads. Banana bread really took off in the 1930s with a recipe published in a Pillsbury cookbook, and the rest, as they say, is history. The humble banana bread has stood the test of time, remaining a popular, comforting bake to this day.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.