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Banana bread is a beloved classic. Its sweet aroma wafting through the house as it bakes is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. While there are countless banana bread recipes out there, sometimes less is more.
In this article, we’re going to explore the beauty of simplicity with a 4 ingredient banana bread recipe.
The Magic of Minimalism
This banana bread recipe demonstrates that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create a delicious and satisfying treat. With just four items, you can have a mouthwatering banana bread that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
1. Ripe Bananas (4): The star of the show, ripe bananas bring natural sweetness and moisture to the bread. They should be heavily speckled with brown spots for the best flavor.
2. Self-Rising Flour (1.5 cups): Self-rising flour contains baking powder and salt, which simplifies the leavening process. If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can make your own by combining all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt.
3. Sugar (1 cup): Granulated sugar adds sweetness to the bread. Adjust the amount to suit your preference, keeping in mind that ripe bananas already contribute sweetness.
4. Eggs (2): Eggs provide structure and moisture to the banana bread. They help bind the ingredients together and give the bread a tender crumb.
Directions for Baking
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 4×8-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mash the Bananas: Peel the ripe bananas and place them in a large bowl. Mash them with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Some small lumps are okay and add texture.
- Add the Sugar and Eggs: To the mashed bananas, add the sugar and eggs. Mix well until the sugar is fully dissolved, and the mixture becomes creamy.
- Incorporate the Flour: Gradually add the self-rising flour to the banana mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are acceptable.
- Transfer to the Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary, so keep an eye on it after the 50-minute mark.
- Cool and Enjoy: Once done, remove the banana bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Set of 2 rectangular-shaped loaf pans; ideal for baking bread, pound cake, meatloaf, and more
- Heavy-weight steel construction provides durability and fast, even heating for uniform browning
- Nonstick coating helps with effortless food release; oven-safe to 428 degrees F
Customizations and Variations
While this 4-ingredient banana bread is delicious as is, you can get creative with it. Consider adding:
- Chocolate Chips: Stir in a handful of chocolate chips for a delightful twist.
- Chopped Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add a satisfying crunch.
- Spices: Enhance the flavor with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
This 4 ingredient banana bread proves that simple recipes can be incredibly satisfying. With ripe bananas, self-rising flour, sugar, and eggs, you can whip up a moist and flavorful banana bread that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Whether you enjoy it plain or customize it with your favorite mix-ins, this banana bread is a delightful treat you’ll want to make again and again.
