There’s something timeless and universally comforting about homemade banana bread. This recipe takes that familiar comfort to new heights, creating what many might call the BEST Banana Bread. Infused with rich flavors of banana and cinnamon, and enhanced by the subtle sweetness of vanilla pudding mix, this banana bread is moist, flavorful, and utterly irresistible.
Ultimate Banana Bread Extravaganza
Dive into this recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a loaf so delightful that it might just become your new go-to comfort food. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or as a sweet treat to share.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Servings: 1 loaf
Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Cooking spray
Ingredients:
- ½ cup (1 stick) butter, softened
- 1 & ¼ cups brown sugar, divided
- 2 eggs
- ⅓ cup Greek yogurt (banana flavor recommended, though plain or vanilla works)
- 2 cups mashed bananas (about 3-4 small/medium bananas)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon, divided
- Pinch of nutmeg
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 box instant vanilla or banana pudding mix (dry)
Directions:
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Liberally spray a 9-inch loaf pan with cooking spray and set aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the softened butter and ¾ cup of the brown sugar until well blended. Whisk in the eggs, Greek yogurt, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in 1 teaspoon cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, baking soda, salt, and the dry pudding mix to the wet mixture. Stir just until combined; the batter will be thick and may be clumpy. Avoid overmixing to prevent the bread from becoming tough.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the remaining ½ cup of brown sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon.
- Assemble: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the top, patting it down lightly.
- Bake: Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, tent the bread with aluminum foil very loosely to prevent the crust and edges from burning. Continue to bake for an additional 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan on a wire rack completely before slicing.
This banana bread recipe stands out with its moist texture and deep flavors, thanks to the addition of pudding mix and spiced sugar topping. Serve it up as a special treat for your family or friends, and watch as it becomes a new favorite in your home baking repertoire!