It can be easy to build up a stash of bananas and let them go bad before you get a chance to use them. Banana bread is a great way of using up old and ripe bananas, as the riper bananas will improve the flavor of your bread. Here’s a recipe for how to make it.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe bananas
- 1/3 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas. Add the beaten egg and vanilla extract to the banana mixture, stirring until well combined. Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture, then gently mix.
- Gradually add the sugar and flour, folding the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined. If desired, add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and grease a standard-sized loaf pan. Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the oven for 60-65 minutes. Allow your banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
