Description
This Honey Vanilla Banana Bread is a moist, naturally sweetened loaf perfect for breakfast or a snack. Made with ripe bananas, honey, and a hint of vanilla, it offers a tender crumb and rich flavor without refined sugars. Optional add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips enhance texture and taste, while a peanut butter glaze or frosting provides a delightful finishing touch.
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 bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and honey until combined. Add the eggs, mashed ripe bananas, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix all these ingredients well to create a smooth, homogeneous wet mixture.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift or mix together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents and salt.
- Combine All: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture. Stir just until combined to avoid overmixing, which could lead to a dense bread. If using, carefully fold in optional add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips.
- Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. If desired, top with sliced banana or other toppings. Bake in the preheated oven for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Optionally, drizzle with peanut butter glaze or spread frosting once cooled.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the bread light and fluffy.
- Use very ripe bananas for optimal sweetness and moisture.
- You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave for a different flavor.
- Milk any type (dairy or plant-based) can be used according to dietary preference.
- Optional add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips add texture but can be omitted for a simple loaf.
- Allow bread to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting.
