Moist Banana Bread Recipe

Description:
This Moist Banana Bread is a delicious, simple recipe that turns overripe bananas into a tender and flavorful loaf. With the perfect balance of sweetness from the bananas and raisins, and the crunch of roasted walnuts, it’s an ideal snack or breakfast treat. The butter adds a rich depth to the bread, making it extra moist, while the vanilla enhances its comforting flavor. This recipe is great for using up overripe bananas and pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea.

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Ingredients (Servings: 10)

• 3 very ripe bananas (medium/large)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (8 Tbsp), at room temperature
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
• ½ cup raisins

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prep Pan:
   Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a bread loaf pan (9.25” x 5.25” x 2.75”). This will ensure the banana bread doesn’t stick and bakes evenly.
2. Toast the Walnuts:
   Lightly toast the walnuts in a skillet over medium heat, stirring continuously to prevent burning. Once fragrant and golden, remove from heat, coarsely chop, and let cool to room temperature.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
   In a mixing bowl, cream together 8 Tbsp of softened butter and ¾ cup of sugar (you can substitute honey for a different sweetness profile). Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Mash and Add Bananas:
   Mash the bananas with a fork until they have a chunky applesauce-like consistency. Add them to the butter-sugar mixture, along with the eggs, and mix until well blended.
5. Mix Dry Ingredients Separately:
   In a separate bowl, whisk together 1½ cups of flour, 1 tsp of baking soda, and ½ tsp of salt. Gently fold this dry mixture into the wet banana mixture until just combined—avoid over-mixing to keep the bread tender.
6. Flavor and Add-ins:
   Stir in ½ tsp of vanilla extract, then fold in the toasted walnuts and raisins for texture and a sweet bite.
7. Bake the Banana Bread:
   Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake at 350°F for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
8. Cool and Serve:
   Allow the banana bread to rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

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Tips and Variations:

• Use Overripe Bananas:
  The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas that are very spotty and soft.
• Don’t Over-Mix:
  To keep the bread light and fluffy, mix the ingredients just until combined. Over-mixing can lead to dense bread.
• Add-Ins:
  Customize this banana bread by adding chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or other nuts in place of (or along with) the walnuts and raisins.
• Freezing:
  This banana bread freezes well. Once cooled, wrap slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Defrost at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

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This Moist Banana Bread is a classic recipe that’s incredibly easy to make. The combination of sweet bananas, crunchy walnuts, and soft raisins creates a delightful texture and flavor balance. It’s perfect for sharing or enjoying as a comforting snack!