Baking can be a profoundly satisfying experience, especially when you whip up a scrumptious treat that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. One Banana Banana Bread is an excellent way to transform a single ripe banana into a moist, delicious loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert.
Why We Love This One Banana Banana Bread Recipe
You might wonder why this simple recipe garners so much affection among bakers and snack enthusiasts alike. One main reason is the ease of preparation. You don’t need a long grocery list or any special equipment to whip this up. With minimal ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry, this recipe is quick and accessible.
Moreover, it’s an excellent way to prevent food waste. Bananas that are overripe are often disregarded, but they are perfect for baking. They contribute sweetness and flavor that you cannot replicate with artificial flavors or extra sugar. Plus, who can resist the enticing aroma of banana bread wafting through your home?
Additionally, the inclusion of semi-sweet mini chocolate chips adds a delightful contrast to the banana’s natural sweetness, making this bread irresistible. Whether enjoyed warm with a cup of tea or coffee, or savored at room temperature, it proves to be a comforting treat.
Now, let’s dive into the ingredient list to prepare your One Banana Banana Bread.
Ingredients for One Banana Banana Bread
To make this simple yet delightful banana bread, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana: The star of the recipe, make sure it is well-mashed for a smooth texture.
- 1 large egg: This acts as a binding agent and helps the bread rise.
- 1/2 cup milk: For moisture and tender texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and flavor to the loaf.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of your bread, giving it structure.
- 3/4 cup sugar: Balances the flavors and enhances sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: The leavening agent to help your bread rise.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Helps to bring out the sweetness of the other ingredients.
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet mini chocolate chips: Adds delightful bursts of chocolate throughout the bread.
With these ingredients, you are set to make a loaf that will impress family and friends.
How to Make One Banana Banana Bread Directions
Now that you have gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking! Follow these straightforward directions to create your One Banana Banana Bread.
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial as it ensures even baking.
Prepare the Loaf Pan: Line your loaf pan with parchment paper and spray it with non-stick spray. This will help your bread effortlessly release from the pan once it’s baked.
Mash the Banana: In a large mixing bowl, take your ripe banana and mash it with a fork until it becomes a smooth puree. This can be a great opportunity to let out any stress by mashing thoroughly!
Combine Ingredients: To the mashed banana, add the egg, milk, melted butter, sugar, baking soda, salt, vanilla extract, and flour. Use a wooden spoon to mix everything together gently until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix as it can affect the bread’s texture.
Fold in Chocolate Chips: Once combined, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Transfer to the Loaf Pan: Scrape the batter into your prepared loaf pan, making sure it is evenly spread. You can sprinkle some extra chocolate chips on top if you like a more decadent finish.
Bake: Place the loaf pan in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center of the bread; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
Cool: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
You now have a freshly baked banana bread ready to enjoy!
How to Serve One Banana Banana Bread
The best part about your One Banana Banana Bread is how versatile and enjoyable it is to serve. Here are a few ideas to consider when it comes to enjoying your loaf:
For Breakfast: Serve slices warm with a pat of butter for a delicious morning treat. You can also pair it with yogurt or a side of fresh fruit to create a well-rounded breakfast.
As a Snack: Perfectly sized for a quick snack, enjoyed on its own or with your favorite spread like peanut butter or cream cheese.
Dessert Delight: Top slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert option. The warm banana bread paired with cold ice cream creates a heavenly experience.
Coffee Companion: It pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea, making it an appealing option for afternoon gatherings.
Sharing is Caring: Wrap slices in parchment paper or place them in a cute bag to share with friends or neighbors. Banana bread makes an excellent gift, especially during the fall or holiday season!
Expert Tips for One Banana Banana Bread
To elevate your baking experience, keep these expert tips in mind:
Choose the Right Banana: Make sure your banana is fully ripe, with lots of brown spots. The riper the banana, the stronger its flavor and sweetness.
Don’t Overmix: Mixing too vigorously can lead to a dense and tough loaf. Stir gently until just combined for the best texture.
Add Nuts for Crunch: If you enjoy a little crunch in your banana bread, feel free to mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans along with the chocolate chips.
Check Your Oven Temperature: Every oven has its quirks, so use a thermometer to check the actual temperature. Adjust your baking time accordingly if your oven runs hot or cold.
Experiment with Flavors: Want to experiment? Consider trying different extracts like almond or hazelnut, or add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
How to Store One Banana Banana Bread
Proper storage can extend the life of your banana bread, keeping it fresh and delicious for longer:
At Room Temperature: If you plan on eating the bread within a few days, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should remain tasty for about three days.
In the Refrigerator: For longer storage, place the bread in the refrigerator where it can keep for up to five days. Make sure it’s in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing: If you want to store your banana bread for even longer, you can freeze it. Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and place it in the freezer. It can last for about three months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or on the counter for a few hours before serving.
Variation of One Banana Banana Bread
While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to switch things up with these variations:
Nutty Banana Bread: Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts for a delightful crunch.
Coconut Banana Bread: Incorporate 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Spiced Banana Bread: Mix in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor profile.
Fruit-Infused: Toss in some blueberries or strawberries for a fruity burst that complements the banana perfectly.
Maple Glaze: Drizzle with a simple maple glaze before serving for an added layer of sweetness.
FAQ about One Banana Banana Bread
What if my banana isn’t very ripe?
Using a very ripe banana is key for the best flavor. If your banana isn’t quite ripe, you can speed up the ripening process by placing it in a brown paper bag with an apple or tomato. The ethylene gas will help ripen it more quickly.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based milk and butter alternatives.
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes! If you have frozen bananas, simply thaw them out and mash them for your recipe. They should perform just as well as fresh ones.
How do I know if my banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your bread is ready.
Can I add yogurt to the recipe for extra moisture?
Yes! You can substitute some of the butter or milk with plain yogurt to create an even richer texture without compromising the flavor.
One Banana Banana Bread
Equipment
- Oven
- Loaf Pan
- Mixing Bowl
- Fork
Ingredients
- 1 each ripe banana well-mashed
- 1 large egg
- 0.5 cup milk
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.75 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 cup semi-sweet mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper or spray with non-stick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth.
- Add the egg, milk, melted butter, sugar, baking soda, salt, and vanilla extract to the mashed banana. Mix until combined.
- Gradually stir in the flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- If using, fold in the mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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