Get ready to embark on a delicious tropical journey with our Caribbean Style Banana Bread! This delightful recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with a hint of island flair, making it the perfect treat for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack. With just a few simple ingredients and a little love, you can whip up a loaf that’s moist, flavorful, and bursting with the essence of the Caribbean. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this banana bread is sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t miss out on the chance to elevate your baking game—let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Caribbean
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly mash the ripe bananas using a fork or potato masher until they reach a smooth, creamy consistency with minimal lumps.
- Add the melted butter to the mashed bananas and mix well until completely incorporated, creating a rich and smooth base.
- Stir in the baking soda and pinch of salt, mixing thoroughly to distribute evenly throughout the banana mixture.
- Add the sugar and mix until it is fully dissolved and integrated into the banana mixture.
- Beat the egg in a separate small bowl, then add it to the banana mixture along with the vanilla extract. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
- Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough bread texture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center - it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Carefully remove the bread from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Optional: For a traditional Caribbean touch, consider adding a sprinkle of ground nutmeg or a handful of toasted coconut flakes before baking.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your bread will be! Look for bananas with brown spots for maximum flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: When adding the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, so be gentle!
- Add a Twist: For a Caribbean flair, consider mixing in a dash of ground nutmeg or folding in some toasted coconut flakes before baking.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your bread at the 50-minute mark. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool Properly: Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its shape and prevents it from becoming soggy.
- Storage Tips: To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 200kcal
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 35mg
