Description
This Honey Vanilla Banana Bread is a moist and flavorful loaf made with ripe bananas, natural honey, and pure vanilla extract. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, it offers a delicious twist on classic banana bread with a hint of sweetness from honey and a subtle vanilla aroma. Optional add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips can be added for extra texture and taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 medium or 2 large ripe bananas (about 1½ cups mashed)
- â…“ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup honey
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup milk (any kind)
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract or vanilla paste
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Optional Add-ins
- Crushed nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans)
- Chocolate chips
- Sliced banana on top
- Peanut butter glaze or frosting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease an 8½x4½-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and honey until combined. Add the eggs, mashed bananas, milk, and pure vanilla extract. Stir the ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is well blended.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents and seasoning.
- Combine All: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until everything is combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. If using, sprinkle with optional toppings such as crushed nuts or chocolate chips. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Then remove it from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor and texture, consider adding crushed walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips into the batter.
- Top with sliced banana before baking for a decorative and tasty touch.
- A peanut butter glaze or frosting can be added on top after baking for added richness.
- Use ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and moisture.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense bread texture.
- Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
