why make this recipe
Chef John’s Banana Bread is a classic recipe loved by many. It’s easy to make and a great way to use overripe bananas. The combination of moist bread with the sweetness of bananas, the crunch of walnuts, and the richness of chocolate chips makes this bread irresistible. Plus, it’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert.
how to make Chef John’s Banana Bread
Ingredients:
- cooking spray
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup white sugar
- 0.5 cup butter, softened
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 0.25 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 0.33 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Coat a 9×4-inch loaf pan with cooking spray.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl; set aside.
- Beat together sugar and butter with an electric mixer in a large bowl until smooth. Add mashed bananas and mix until combined. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in milk and vanilla.
- Stir in flour mixture, walnuts, and chocolate chips until just incorporated. Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan. Tap the pan on the counter to release any air pockets.
- Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Let rest in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes. Remove bread from the pan, then slice and serve.
how to serve Chef John’s Banana Bread
Serve Chef John’s Banana Bread warm or at room temperature. It is delicious on its own but can also be enjoyed with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. You can even pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
how to store Chef John’s Banana Bread
To store Chef John’s Banana Bread, let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bread by wrapping it in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer bag. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months.
tips to make Chef John’s Banana Bread
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix until just combined for a tender loaf.
- You can substitute walnuts with pecans or omit them for a nut-free version.
- Adjust the amount of chocolate chips to suit your taste.
- If you want to add more flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg.
variation
You can easily customize Chef John’s Banana Bread by adding different ingredients. You might try adding dried fruit, like cranberries or raisins, or even swap half of the flour for whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
A: Yes, frozen bananas work well! Just thaw them and mash them before adding to the batter.
Q: How can I tell when the banana bread is done?
A: Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean, the bread is done.
Q: Can I make mini loaves instead?
A: Yes, you can use mini loaf pans. Just adjust the baking time to about 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.