Banana Loaf with Raisins and Cherries

This delightful banana loaf combines the rich flavors of ripe bananas with the sweetness of raisins and glazed cherries, resulting in a perfectly moist and flavorful treat. Crafted with simple ingredients you likely have on hand, this recipe yields a scrumptious, crowd-pleasing loaf perfect for any occasion. The use of ripe bananas ensures that the loaf is sweet without being overly sugary, while the addition of walnuts provides a delightful crunch. Ideal for breakfast, snack time, or as a light dessert, this banana loaf is easy to prepare but packs a punch in taste. The subtle spice from the cherries adds a unique twist, making this loaf truly special. It's a versatile recipe that allows for customization to cater to different tastes, whether you prefer it plain or dressed up with butter. The loaf also improves in flavor as it rests, making it even more enjoyable in the days following its baking. With the aroma of freshly baked bananas filling your kitchen, you're bound to impress both family and friends with this delicious creation.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 450 g bananas (preferably ripe)
• 225 g flour
• 110 g butter
• 170 g caster sugar
• 110 g raisins
• 30 g walnuts
• 110 g glace cherries
• 2 eggs

Spices & Other Essentials

• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 90 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C. This ensures that the loaf will bake evenly and develop a beautiful crust.

2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sieve together the flour and salt. This step helps to aerate the flour and ensures a smoother texture for the loaf.

3. Mix the Base: Add the butter and caster sugar to the flour mixture. Use a spoon or an electric mixer to blend the ingredients until they are well combined.

4. Incorporate Fruits and Nuts: Fold in the raisins, chopped walnuts, and glace cherries. Ensure all these ingredients are evenly distributed for consistent flavor throughout the loaf.

5. Mash the Bananas: Peel the ripe bananas and mash them thoroughly with a fork until smooth. The ripeness of the bananas contributes significantly to the loaf's sweetness and moisture.

6. Beat the Eggs: Lightly beat the eggs in a separate bowl before adding them to the mashed bananas. Stir until the bananas and eggs are well integrated.

7. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Slowly pour the banana mixture into the bowl containing the flour base. Gently fold everything together, taking care not to overmix.

8. Prepare the Baking Tin: Grease a baking tin or line it with baking paper for ease of unmolding. Ideal dimensions are 24cm x 13.5cm x 5cm to achieve a nice, loaf-like shape.

9. Pour Batter into Tin: Transfer your batter into the prepared tin, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

10. Bake: Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1.5 hours. Keep an eye on the loaf to ensure it doesn't overbake.

11. Check for Doneness: Insert a skewer into the center of the loaf; it should come out clean when the loaf is fully baked.

12. Cooling the Loaf: Allow the baked loaf to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

13. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once cooled, dust the top of the loaf with powdered sugar for a delightful finishing touch.

14. Enhance Flavor: For enhanced taste, allow the loaf to rest for a day before slicing. The flavors meld together, making each slice even more delicious.

15. Slicing: Use a sharp knife to cut the loaf into fine slices.

16. Serving Suggestions: Enjoy the slices as they are, or add a spread of butter for an extra layer of richness.

Remember, this loaf is perfect to be shared, so invite family and friends to enjoy this homemade delight.

Tips

• Ripe Bananas: Ensure bananas are fully ripe for the best sweetness and easiest mashing.
• Mixing the Ingredients: Be gentle when combining to maintain a light texture.
• Storage: Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh for longer.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 280 per slice
• Protein: 4g
• Fats: 12g
• Carbs: 40g

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute plain flour with a gluten-free baking mix.
• Nut-Free: Omit walnuts if allergic or replace with sunflower seeds.
• Vegan: Use flax eggs and replace butter with coconut oil.

Serving Suggestions

• Drink Pairing: Serve with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
• Additional Toppings: Pair with a spread of cream cheese for extra creaminess.

Best Places

1. The Bread Bar - Known for its delectable bread offerings, especially their banana loaves. Location: 47 King St E, Hamilton, Canada.
2. Mamma's Bakery - Famous for their sweet treats, including a delightful banana bread. Location: 106 Rainey St, Austin, USA.
3. The Loaf Canteen - Offers a selection of rich loaves with excellent reviews. Location: 12 Waterloo St, Birmingham, UK.
4. Baked & Wired - A cute café with a wide variety of breads and pastries. Location: 1052 Thomas Jefferson St NW, Washington, DC, USA.
5. The Flour Bakery - Renowned for their unique twist on classic bread recipes. Location: 1595 Washington St, Boston, USA.
6. Gails' Bakery - Known for artisanal bread and homey café vibe. Location: 138 Portobello Rd, London, UK.
7. Bakers Delight - A bakery chain with consistently good reviews for their sweet loaves. Location: 300 Queen St, Auckland, New Zealand.
8. Artisan Bread Co - Serves a range of breads, including a popular banana loaf. Location: 123 High St, Sydney, Australia.
9. Bread Ahead Bakery - Offers mouth-watering loaves in the heart of London. Location: 109 Borough Market, London, UK.
10. Batch Baking Company - A small artisanal bakery with a big heart for bread. Location: 875 W Pender St, Vancouver, Canada.

This recipe turns a simple banana loaf into an elegant treat, perfect for both casual and special occasions. Enjoy baking and sharing your creation!