Introduction
What to expect
A moist quick bread that transforms overripe bananas into a cozy, sweet loaf.
The story
Behind the recipe
Banana bread originated in the United States, where bananas were introduced in the 1870s. It gained popularity as a recipe when baking powder became widely available in stores during the 1930s. Many food historians associate its rise with the Great Depression, as resourceful households sought to use overripe bananas rather than waste them. Others believe banana bread was developed in corporate kitchens to promote flour and baking soda. The dish saw a major resurgence during the COVID-19 pandemic as home baking surged.
Method
Instructions
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1
Preheat oven to 175C and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
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2
Mash the bananas thoroughly in a large bowl.
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3
Stir melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla into the mashed bananas.
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4
Mix flour, baking soda, and salt together in a separate bowl.
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5
Fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
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6
Stir in chopped walnuts if using.
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7
Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
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8
Bake for 55 to 60 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Adaptations