"My freshly baked 4-ingredient banana bread is ready to devour! Not only does it give me a great sense of achievement to bake on a weeknight after work, I look forward to waking up and having it the next morning for breakfast!"
4 Ingredient Banana Bread
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Recipe Intro From fussfreecooking
This 4-ingredient banana bread is a breeze to make and delivers a moist, delicious loaf every time. It’s made with only 4 ingredients; ripe bananas, sugar, eggs, and self-raising flour. It's an easy, classic treat, perfect for any time of day.
Recipe Description
Banana bread is a classic comfort food, and this easy banana bread recipe's simplicity makes it a go-to for busy days or when you need a quick homemade treat. The ripe bananas provide natural sweetness, while the eggs and self-raising flour create a moist and fluffy texture. Enjoy a slice with a dollop of whipped honey and a slab of melted butter.
Jump to Section
- 4 Ingredient Banana Bread Ingredients
- Test Kitchen Notes
- FAQs
- Recipe Card
4 Ingredient Banana Bread Ingredients
Everything you need to make 4 ingredient banana bread.
Self-rising Flour: This is a type of flour that already contains baking powder and salt, which helps baked goods rise and adds flavor. If you don't have self-rising flour on hand, you can easily make a substitute. For every cup of self-rising flour called for in a recipe, simply combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt. Mix well before using it in your recipe. This substitute works well in most recipes that call for self-rising flour.
Test Kitchen Notes
Adding Ins: Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter. Add a splash of vanilla extract or swap out the sugar for brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Ripe Bananas: Using overripe bananas is crucial for achieving the best flavor in your banana bread. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more pronounced the banana flavor will be in the final product.
Mixing Technique: Be mindful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough loaf. Mix the ingredients until just combined for a tender and moist banana bread.
Testing for Doneness: To check if your banana bread is ready, insert a cake tester or toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is done baking.
Cool Before Slicing: Allow your banana bread to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps the bread set and makes it easier to slice without crumbling.
FAQs
Is baking soda or powder better for banana bread?
Both baking soda and baking powder can be used in banana bread, but they work differently. Baking soda requires an acidic ingredient, like yogurt or buttermilk, to activate and help the bread rise. Baking powder contains both an acid and a base and can be used alone. For banana bread, which already has acidic ingredients like bananas, either can be used. Baking soda may impart a slightly different flavor, so you might prefer baking powder if you're sensitive to that.
Can you put too much banana in banana bread?
Yes, you can put too much banana in banana bread. While bananas add flavor and moisture, too much can make the bread overly dense and wet. It can also affect the bread's ability to rise properly. It's best to stick to the recommended amount in the recipe.
Why is my banana bread dense and not fluffy?
Several factors can lead to dense banana bread. Using too much banana, not incorporating enough air into the batter, or over-mixing the batter can all result in a dense texture. Using old or expired baking powder or baking soda can also affect the bread's rise. Additionally, not preheating the oven properly or opening the oven door too often during baking can cause the bread to be dense.
What can you substitute for bananas in banana bread?
If you're looking for a substitute for bananas in banana bread, you can try using applesauce, pumpkin puree, or yogurt. These ingredients can provide moisture and some flavor, similar to bananas. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the bread may vary depending on the substitute used.
Prep time 10mins
Cook time 40mins
Serves or Makes: 1 loaf (8-10 slices)
Recipe Card
ingredients
- 4 overripe bananas
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 cups self-raising flour
Method
Step 1
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9” x 5” loaf tin with baking paper and set aside.
Step 2
In a mixing bowl, mash the bananas with a fork.
Step 3
Add the eggs and sugar, and beat the mixture until well combined.
Step 4
Stir in the self-raising flour until just combined. Do not over-mix.
Step 5
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin.
Step 6
Bake for 40 minutes, or until a cake tester comes out clean.
Step 7
Allow the banana bread to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8
Once cooled, store the banana bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2 to 4 days.