Why Make This Recipe
Maple Banana Bread is a delightful twist on the classic banana bread. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas combined with the rich flavor of maple syrup creates a moist, delicious loaf that everyone will enjoy. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. Added walnuts give it a nice crunch and extra flavor. Making this bread is easy, and it fills your home with a wonderful aroma while it bakes.
How to Make Maple Banana Bread
Ingredients:
0.5 cup butter, melted
0.5 cup maple syrup
1 egg
2 ripe bananas
0.5 teaspoon maple extract
3 tablespoons milk
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
0.5 teaspoon baking powder
0.25 cup chopped walnuts
3 tablespoons white sugar
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 5×9 inch loaf pan.
In a large bowl, mix the melted butter and maple syrup. Beat in the egg and bananas, leaving a few small chunks. Stir in the maple extract and milk.
In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Stir this mixture into the banana mixture just until moistened. Transfer to the prepared loaf pan.
Mix the nuts and sugar, then sprinkle evenly over the batter.
Bake for 50 minutes in the preheated oven, or until a knife inserted in the center of the loaf comes out clean.
How to Serve Maple Banana Bread
Maple Banana Bread is best served warm. You can slice it and enjoy it plain or spread a little butter on each slice for extra flavor. It also pairs well with coffee or tea. For a special treat, warm a slice in the microwave and add a drizzle of maple syrup on top.
How to Store Maple Banana Bread
To store Maple Banana Bread, let it cool completely, then wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Wrap the bread tightly and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last for about three months in the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.
Tips to Make Maple Banana Bread
- Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor. The more spots they have, the sweeter they will be.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until the dry ingredients are combined with the wet ingredients.
- If you don’t have walnuts, you can substitute with pecans or leave them out entirely.
- You can add chocolate chips for a sweeter touch or cinnamon for extra warmth.
Variation
You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for more flavor. Consider replacing half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version. You might also add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a different taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other sweeteners instead of maple syrup?
A: Yes, you can use honey or brown sugar, but it will change the flavor slightly.
Q: Can I make this bread gluten-free?
A: Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
Q: How can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based milk or a vegan butter substitute.