Professional Banana Bread Recipe

Indulge in the rich flavors of this decadent Banana Bread, crafted with care and precision. Bursting with the sweetness of ripe bananas, the tartness of raisins, and the crunch of toasted walnuts, this recipe has garnered acclaim with its perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans), optional

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure easy release of the bread.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Gradually beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring thorough incorporation after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
4. Mash Bananas: In a separate bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Incorporate the mashed bananas into the wet mixture, stirring until well combined.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed.
6. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Fold in Nuts (Optional): If desired, gently fold in the chopped nuts of your choice to add an extra layer of flavor and texture.
8. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool: Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Glaze (Optional): For an added touch of sweetness, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create a glaze. Drizzle over the cooled banana bread before serving.

Savor each slice of this delectable Banana Bread, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time you crave a delightful treat. Enjoy!