Let’s embark on a delightful culinary journey to create a scrumptious Jamaican Banana Bread! Here’s a detailed recipe that ensures a flavorful and moist bread with a touch of the Caribbean.
Ingredients:
- 4 large ripe bananas (the riper, the better for sweetness and moisture)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup whole milk (you can use coconut milk for a more tropical flavor)
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional but adds an authentic touch)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional, walnuts or pecans work well)
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, and optionally, line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
- Mash the Bananas:
- Peel the bananas and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Using a fork or potato masher, mash the bananas until smooth. Some lumps are fine as they add texture.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- Add the eggs, one at a time, to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and milk until combined.
- Stir in the mashed bananas until everything is well blended.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix as this can make the bread dense.
- Add Nuts and Dried Fruit (optional):
- Gently fold in the chopped nuts and raisins or dried cranberries if you’re using them.
- Pour into Pan and Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.
Jamaican Banana Bread
Let's embark on a delightful culinary journey to create a scrumptious Jamaican Banana Bread! Here's a detailed recipe that ensures a flavorful and moist bread with a touch of the Caribbean
Ingredients
- 4 large ripe bananas the riper, the better for sweetness and moisture
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup whole milk you can use coconut milk for a more tropical flavor
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg optional but adds an authentic touch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts optional, walnuts or pecans work well
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries optional
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, and optionally, line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
- Mash the Bananas:
- Peel the bananas and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Using a fork or potato masher, mash the bananas until smooth. Some lumps are fine as they add texture.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- Add the eggs, one at a time, to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and milk until combined.
- Stir in the mashed bananas until everything is well blended.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix as this can make the bread dense.
- Add Nuts and Dried Fruit (optional):
- Gently fold in the chopped nuts and raisins or dried cranberries if you're using them.
- Pour into Pan and Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.
Tips for Perfect Jamaican Banana Bread:
- Bananas: Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Butter: Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming with the sugar.
- Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter after adding the dry ingredients to keep the bread light and tender.
- Spices: Adjust the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg to your taste preference. You can also add a pinch of allspice for an extra Caribbean touch.
- Add-ins: Feel free to experiment with other mix-ins like shredded coconut, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of Nutella for added indulgence.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy a warm slice of banana bread with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.
- Pair with a cup of Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee for an authentic experience.
- Serve as a delightful breakfast, snack, or dessert.
Storage and Freezing:
- Room Temperature: Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate: You can extend its freshness by refrigerating it for up to a week.
- Freeze: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Final Thoughts:
Jamaican Banana Bread is a wonderfully versatile and easy recipe that brings a taste of the tropics to your kitchen. Its moist texture, fragrant spices, and optional add-ins make it a beloved treat for any occasion.
Let your kitchen fill with the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked banana bread, and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors that this recipe offers. If you have any other requests or need further assistance, I’m here to help! 🌴🍌
Happy baking!