Baked Banana Delight

This Baked Banana Delight is a delicious way to make the most out of overripe bananas, transforming them into a fragrant and moist loaf. The combination of bananas, melted butter, brown sugar, and exotic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves give this treat a rich and irresistible flavor. A touch of vanilla and a splash of whiskey or rum add depth, making it a sophisticated version of classic banana bread. This recipe is easy to follow and results in a soft, tender crumb that's perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack. The intoxicating aroma of spices while baking is a warm welcome to any home. It's an adaptable recipe, allowing you to make substitutions to suit your taste or dietary needs. Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting treat. Prepare for a delightful baking experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and mouth-watering scent. This recipe is bound to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 4 medium-sized, very ripe bananas
• 75 g melted butter
• 150-200 g brown sugar (depending on desired sweetness)
• 1 well-beaten egg
• 1 tsp liquid vanilla
• 1 tbsp whiskey or rum (optional)
• 165 g flour

Spices

• 1 tsp baking soda
• A pinch of salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• A pinch of ground cloves

Preparation Time

Total time: 75 minutes (Prep Time: 15 minutes, Cook Time: 60 minutes)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Peel the bananas and mash them thoroughly with a potato masher or a fork, ensuring no large chunks remain.
3. Mix in the melted butter with the mashed bananas until well incorporated.
4. Stir in the brown sugar, egg, vanilla, and whiskey/rum (if using) into the banana mixture.
5. Add the cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to the mix to infuse the flavors.
6. Sprinkle baking soda and salt over the mixture, then stir to blend the ingredients evenly.
7. Gradually add the flour, stirring gently to combine. Avoid overmixing to ensure the loaf remains light and airy.
8. Prepare a loaf pan by greasing it with butter to prevent sticking.
9. Pour the banana mixture into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
10. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Cool the loaf in the pan on a rack. This helps set the structure of the bread before removing it.
12. Once cooled, carefully remove the banana bread from the pan.
13. Slice and serve, either warm or at room temperature.
14. Enjoy on its own or with a spread of butter or cream cheese.

Tips

• Tip for moist bread: Do not overmix the batter, as this can lead to a denser texture.
• Substitutions: Substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier version or use a gluten-free mix for dietary needs.
• Enhancements: Add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or raisins for extra texture and flavor.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 250 per slice
• Protein: 3g
• Fats: 10g
• Carbs: 40g

Variations

• Vegan Option: Substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water).
• Low Sugar: Use a sugar replacement or reduce the amount of brown sugar.
• Spice It Up: Add more spices like ginger or allspice for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
• Garnish with sliced bananas or a dusting of powdered sugar for presentation.
• Pair with a hot beverage like coffee, espresso, or herbal tea.

Best Places

1. Café de la Banane - A vibrant spot known for its banana-themed desserts. Location: 15 Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
2. The Banana Loft - Cozy café specializing in banana breads and coffees. Location: 112 Main Street, New York, USA.
3. Banana Corner Café - Offers a relaxing atmosphere with tropical banana treats. Location: 23 Orchard Road, Singapore.
4. Tropical Banana Bar - Beachfront café with a focus on fruit-inspired dishes. Location: 56 Ocean Drive, Bali, Indonesia.
5. Banana Bread Bliss - Known for exotic twists on traditional banana desserts. Location: 78 Queen Street, Auckland, New Zealand.
6. Banana Republic Café - Features live music and a banana-focused menu. Location: 21 King Street, London, UK.
7. Banana Leaf Bistro - Combines banana dishes with Asian fusion cuisine. Location: 9 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok, Thailand.
8. La Bananeria Café - A popular spot for artisanal coffees and banana pastries. Location: 34 Via del Corso, Rome, Italy.
9. The Banana Bar - Urban café with an eclectic menu and relaxed vibe. Location: 47 Swanston Street, Melbourne, Australia.
10. Banana Bay Café - Offers a wide variety of banana-based dishes. Location: 13 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, USA.