Introduction
There’s something magical about the combination of ripe bananas and juicy blueberries, especially when they come together in a warm, comforting loaf of bread. This easy blueberry banana bread is not just a delightful treat; it’s a perfect way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. With its rich, moist texture and a burst of flavor from the blueberries, it makes a wonderful breakfast, snack, or even a dessert. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that will fill your kitchen with a heavenly aroma!
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 65 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with the melted butter, creating a smooth and creamy base.
- Stir in the sugar until fully incorporated, allowing the sweetness to blend beautifully with the bananas.
- Add the beaten egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is combined and fragrant.
- Sprinkle the baking soda and a pinch of salt over the banana mixture, then mix well to activate the baking soda.
- Gradually add the flour, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this ensures a tender loaf!
- Fold in the blueberries gently, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top for an even bake.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be a lovely golden brown.
- Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For a little extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a handful of chopped nuts to the batter. If you’re using frozen blueberries, there’s no need to thaw them—just fold them in straight from the freezer for a delightful burst of coldness in each bite!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe is a great introduction to the art of quick bread making. The key here is to mix gently and avoid overworking the dough. When incorporating the flour, aim for a few visible streaks of flour—this means your bread will be wonderfully soft and moist. Also, let your bread cool in the pan briefly to help maintain its structure before transferring it to a cooling rack.
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. The texture will be slightly denser, but the flavor will still be delightful.
How should I store leftover bread?
Wrap the cooled bread in plastic wrap or foil and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, slice it and freeze it for up to three months.
Conclusion
This easy blueberry banana bread is sure to become a family favorite, perfect for breakfast on the go or a sweet afternoon treat. With its rich banana flavor complemented by the tartness of blueberries, it’s deliciously addictive! Bake a loaf today and bring comfort to your table with every slice.