Introduction
Banana blueberry bread is a delicious and moist treat that makes for a perfect breakfast or snack. With the sweet flavor of ripe bananas balanced by the tartness of blueberries, this recipe is sure to delight anyone who takes a bite. Whether you are an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this simple recipe will guide you in creating a delightful loaf that fills your home with an irresistible aroma.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ cup vegetable oil
– ⅔ cup granulated sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 medium bananas (about 1¼ cups mashed banana)
– 1 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour (to toss with blueberries)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
Total Time: 75-85 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
This delightful banana blueberry bread is not only easy to prepare but also brings together fantastic flavors that your family and friends will love. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted for an extra special treat!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325ºF (163ºC). While the oven is heating, prepare your loaf pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan
Spray a 9×5 loaf pan with nonstick spray to prevent the bread from sticking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a small mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Mix these ingredients together and set the bowl aside.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a larger mixing bowl, beat together the 2 eggs, ⅔ cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Add Bananas
Mash the 2 medium bananas until smooth, or you can beat them directly into the wet mixture if you are using an electric mixer. Ensure there are no large lumps.
Step 6: Combine Mixtures
Add the flour mixture that you set aside earlier to the wet mixture. Stir the combined mixture just until it is mixed. Take care not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the bread.
Step 7: Prepare Blueberries
Toss the 1 cup of blueberries with 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour in a small bowl. This step helps keep the blueberries suspended in the batter rather than sinking to the bottom while baking.
Step 8: Fold in Blueberries
Gently stir the blueberries into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed without breaking them.
Step 9: Transfer to Loaf Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared 9×5-inch loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
Step 10: Bake
Place the loaf pan in the center of the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the bread is ready.
Step 11: Cooling Phase
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 8-10 minutes.
Step 12: Remove from Pan
Use a butterknife to gently loosen the edges of the loaf from the pan. Carefully turn the loaf onto a wire rack to let it cool completely.
Notes
Note 1: Bananas
For the best flavor, use ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots for optimal sweetness.
Note 2: Blueberries
If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them before adding to the batter to prevent discoloration.
Note 3: Storage
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze the bread for longer storage.
Note 4: Customization
Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or other fruits to the batter if desired for added flavor and texture.
Cook techniques
Measuring Ingredients Accurately
Ensure that all ingredients, especially flour and sugar, are measured accurately using standard measuring cups for precise results.
Mixing Techniques
When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can lead to a dense loaf.
Mashed Bananas
Bananas should be mashed thoroughly until smooth for even incorporation into the batter, making it creamy and moist.
Coating Blueberries
Tossing blueberries with a little flour helps prevent them from sinking in the batter during baking, keeping them evenly distributed throughout the loaf.
Baking Time and Temperature
Bake the loaf in a preheated oven at 325ºF, and check for doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean when the loaf is ready.
Cooling the Loaf
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 8-10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack, which helps prevent soggy bottoms and maintains a good crust.
FAQ
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen blueberries can be used. Just make sure to toss them in flour to help keep them from sinking.
What can I substitute for vegetable oil?
You can substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce for a healthier option.
How do I know when the loaf is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the loaf is done.
Can I add nuts or other fruits to the recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts or other fruits can be added for additional flavor and texture.
How should I store the banana blueberry bread?
Store the cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Conclusion
This delightful Banana Blueberry Bread is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it an ideal treat for breakfast or a snack. The moistness of the bananas combined with the burst of juiciness from the blueberries creates a satisfying loaf that is sure to please anyone. Easy to make and rewarding to enjoy, it’s a fantastic way to use ripe bananas and fresh or frozen blueberries.
Blueberry Lemon Bread
Combine blueberries with the zest of a lemon for a refreshing twist. Replace some of the oil with lemon juice to enhance the flavor.
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
Add ½ to 1 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a deliciously decadent twist on the classic recipe.
Cinnamon Nut Banana Bread
Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans along with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon for a nutty and warm flavor profile.
Banana Nutella Swirl Bread
After pouring the batter into the pan, swirl in generous spoonfuls of Nutella for a rich chocolate-hazelnut surprise in every slice.
Peanut Butter Banana Bread
Mix in ½ cup of creamy or chunky peanut butter into the wet ingredients for a protein-packed loaf that is incredibly satisfying.
Apple Banana Bread
Add finely chopped apples along with the bananas for a fruity combination that adds crunch and contrasts well with the sweetness.
Maple Walnut Banana Bread
Replace the granulated sugar with maple syrup and incorporate chopped walnuts for a unique sweetness and texture.
Savory Banana Bread
Remove sugar and cinnamon from the recipe, and add ingredients like cheese and herbs for a savory version that pairs well with soups.
Gluten-Free Banana Blueberry Bread
Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option everyone can enjoy.
Banana Zucchini Bread
Add about 1 cup of grated zucchini to the batter for an extra moist loaf packed with hidden vegetables.
