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Best Banana Bread with Walnuts and Raisins

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Classic Banana Bread with Walnuts and Raisins

Introduction
Banana bread is a timeless recipe that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the comforting flavors of butter, vanilla, and spices. This classic version features the added crunch of toasted walnuts and the natural sweetness of raisins, making it a crowd-pleaser for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this step-by-step recipe ensures success every time.

Ingredients

  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed with a fork
  • ½ cup butter (1 stick), at room temperature
  • ¾ cup white sugar (or 1 scant cup of honey for a natural sweetener)
  • 2 eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup walnuts, toasted and coarsely chopped
  • ½ cup raisins

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Bananas

  • In a medium-sized bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
  • Set the mashed bananas aside.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

  1. Cream the butter and sugar:
    • In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar (or honey) together until light and fluffy.
    • This step incorporates air into the mixture, giving the bread a tender crumb.
  2. Add the eggs:
    • Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  3. Add the bananas and vanilla:
    • Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
  • This step evenly distributes the leavening agent, ensuring a uniform rise.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

  1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the bread dense.
  2. Gently fold in the toasted walnuts and raisins to ensure they are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Bake

  1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  3. If the top browns too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

  1. Remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
  2. Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
  3. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
See also  No-Bake Pineapple Heaven Cheesecake Dessert

Serving Suggestions

  • Breakfast: Enjoy a slice with a pat of butter or cream cheese.
  • Snack: Pair with a cup of tea, coffee, or a glass of milk.
  • Dessert: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Cooking Tips

  1. Use very ripe bananas: Bananas with brown spots or blackened skins are ideal for maximum sweetness and flavor.
  2. Toast the walnuts: Toasting enhances their flavor. Bake on a sheet at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Avoid overmixing: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense bread. Stir until the ingredients are just combined.
  4. Customize the mix-ins: Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds, or replace raisins with dried cranberries or chocolate chips.
  5. Room-temperature ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for a smooth batter and even baking.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Bananas: Packed with potassium, vitamin C, and natural sweetness, they provide energy and support heart health.
  • Walnuts: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and antioxidants, they promote brain health.
  • Raisins: A natural source of iron, fiber, and natural sugars for sustained energy.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian: Contains no meat or animal-derived additives.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
  • Nut-Free Option: Omit the walnuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin.

Storage Tips

  • Room Temperature: Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigeration: For extended freshness, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week.
  • Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes! Thaw the bananas completely, then mash and use as directed.

2. Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?

Absolutely! Divide the batter into a greased or lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes.

3. How can I make this recipe healthier?

  • Replace butter with coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce.
  • Substitute white sugar with honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar.

4. What can I use instead of walnuts?

Swap walnuts for pecans, almonds, or seeds, or leave them out entirely.

5. Why is my banana bread dense?

Overmixing the batter or not using enough leavening agents can result in dense bread. Mix gently and measure ingredients accurately.

This banana bread recipe is a comforting classic with a touch of texture from walnuts and raisins. It’s simple to prepare, customizable, and perfect for any time of day!

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