Today, we're baking up a loaf that's moist, flavorful, and includes a healthy twist thanks to the addition of ground flaxseed. This Ultimate Banana Bread is perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a thoughtful homemade gift. Let's dive into the recipe and start baking!
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup ground flaxseed
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- Optional: nuts, chocolate chips, raisins, or any of your favorite mix-ins
Preparation:
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Preheat and Prep: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray to ensure your banana bread comes out perfectly.
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Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground flaxseed, baking soda, cinnamon, and sea salt. This combination not only gives your bread structure but also infuses it with the health benefits of flaxseed and the warm spice of cinnamon.
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Blend the Wet Ingredients: In a separate larger bowl, mix the mashed bananas, sour cream, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and sugar until well combined. The sour cream is the secret to a moist banana bread, while the bananas provide natural sweetness and flavor.
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Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread tough. If you're adding nuts, chocolate chips, or raisins, gently fold them in at this stage.
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Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. The golden crust and the irresistible aroma will tell you it's done.
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Cool and Serve: Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This patience pays off, as it makes slicing easier and enhances the flavors.
This Ultimate Banana Bread, with its tender crumb and rich flavor, is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly special. The addition of ground flaxseed not only introduces omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants but also adds a subtle nuttiness that complements the bananas beautifully. Whether you enjoy it plain, with nuts, or a handful of chocolate chips, this banana bread is sure to become a cherished recipe in your baking repertoire. So, preheat your oven and let's make your kitchen smell like banana heaven!