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Got some super ripe bananas? Mash them up and bake a moist, tasty loaf that's got that cozy Southern vibe. Inspired by Paula Deen, this banana bread comes out soft, full of that rich flavor, and somehow tastes even better if you let it sit overnight.
After a bunch of trial and error, I learned that getting your ingredients to the right temp and not overmixing makes all the difference in how your bread turns out.
Irresistible Elemental Banana Bread
- Optional nuts throw in some great crunch
- Fresh eggs keep everything held together
- Flavor gets a boost from real vanilla
- Cinnamon gives a touch of warmth
- Rich butter brings out the depth
- Bananas—make sure they're super sweet and spotty
Baking Bliss
- Let It Rest:
- Be patient—let it cool so it slices easier.
- Bake Time:
- Keep watch so you don't overdo it.
- Spoon Evenly:
- Spread batter into the pan gently.
- Gentle Mixing:
- Stop mixing as soon as it comes together.
- Banana Prep:
- Give the bananas a good smash and stir in gently.
- Butter and Sugar:
- Beat 'em together until it's fluffy.
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Awesome Ways to Serve
You can make this banana bread work for anything by trying these ideas:
- Pop slices in the freezer for later
- Turn it into a breakfast board
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream
- Cut a warm piece and slather with butter
- Serve up at tea time for a cozy snack
Fun Twists
Switch things up with these add-ins and swaps:
- Add in a handful of chocolate chips for extra yum
- Play around with spices you like
- Toss in different types of nuts
- Make it all plant-based if you want
- Plan ahead and bake early for convenience
Keep It Fresh
Here's how to make sure your banana bread doesn't dry out or go bad fast:
- Wrap it in plastic tightly
- It'll stay nice on the counter for 3 or 4 days
- If you wrap it up twice, it freezes great for up to 3 months
- Reheat gently so it tastes just-baked
- Be sure to store it right for the best flavor later on
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I've baked this Paula Deen banana bread so many times, and each attempt brought me closer to that unbeatable Southern comfort feel. If you use the right technique and good ingredients, you’ll whip up banana bread that'll make any moment feel special.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Squeeze zucchini?
- Yep, get rid of extra water before you mix everything together.
- → Make it gluten-free?
- Just swap in a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend.
- → Reduce sugar?
- Pour in more maple syrup and cut back the brown sugar.
- → Add mix-ins?
- Nuts, chocolate chips, or even seeds are tasty add-ins.
- → How to store?
- Wrap it up and keep on the counter for 3 or 4 days.