Banana Nut Bread Recipe

Banana nut bread is a classic comfort food that brings together the sweetness of ripe bananas with the satisfying crunch of cashews. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert, this recipe is both delicious and easy to make. Follow the steps below for a moist and flavorful loaf that’s sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients

• 2 cups wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas
• 2 cups Kellogg’s corn cereal
• ½ cup whipped butter or ghee
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup coarsely chopped cashews

Directions

Preparing the Dry Ingredients

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Preparing the Wet Ingredients

2. Soak the Cereal: In another bowl, mix the mashed bananas with the Kellogg’s corn cereal. Let it sit for about 5 minutes or until the cereal is softened. This will help add a unique texture to the bread.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whipped butter (or ghee) and sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which helps the bread rise and keeps it moist.
4. Add Eggs: Add the eggs to the butter and sugar mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Combining the Mixtures

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the banana and cereal mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until well combined. Then, fold in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully incorporated without overmixing.
6. Add Cashews: Gently fold in the coarsely chopped cashews, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.

Baking the Bread

7. Prepare the Baking Pan: Lightly coat a 9x5x3 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
8. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for about 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before removing it. Transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Wrap the bread in plastic wrap to keep it fresh.

Tips for Perfect Banana Nut Bread

Choosing Bananas

• Ripeness Matters: Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness.
• Mash Thoroughly: Make sure to mash the bananas well to avoid lumps in the batter.

Baking Tips

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can make the bread dense. Stir until the ingredients are just combined.
• Check for Doneness: Ovens vary, so start checking your bread at the 50-minute mark. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it with foil.

Storage

• Storing Bread: Store the bread at room temperature wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Banana bread freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I Use a Different Type of Flour?

Yes, you can substitute wheat flour with all-purpose flour or even a gluten-free blend if you prefer. The texture may vary slightly, but it should still be delicious.

Can I Add Other Nuts or Ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different nuts like walnuts or pecans. You can also add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or a swirl of peanut butter.

How Do I Keep the Bread Moist?

To keep your banana nut bread moist, make sure not to overbake it. Store it in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap as soon as it’s cool.

Can I Make Muffins with This Recipe?

Yes, you can use this recipe to make muffins. Simply divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

What Can I Serve with Banana Nut Bread?

Banana nut bread is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a spread of butter, cream cheese, or a drizzle of honey.

By following these steps and tips, you’ll have a delicious banana nut bread that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors and share a slice with family and friends!