Banana Bread Recipe America's Test Kitchen
There's nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked banana bread, especially when it's made using the recipe from America's Test Kitchen. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for creating a moist and flavorful loaf that's packed with banana flavor and just the right amount of sweetness.
Ingredients
To make this delicious banana bread, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 6 large ripe bananas, mashed (about 2¾ cups)
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup plain yogurt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped (optional)
Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature before starting to bake.
Directions
Follow these simple steps to make the perfect banana bread:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch by 5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, mix together the mashed bananas, sugar, eggs, yogurt, and vanilla until well combined.
- Gently stir in the melted butter.
- Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
- If using walnuts, gently fold them into the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing it and placing it on a wire rack to cool completely.
This banana bread is best served warm or at room temperature. It can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This recipe makes one 9-inch loaf.
Tips for Success
To ensure that your banana bread turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips:
- Use ripe bananas. The riper the bananas, the more flavor and sweetness they will add to the bread.
- Do not overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to a tough, rubbery bread.
- Do not overbake. To avoid a dry bread, check the bread at the 50-minute mark and continue baking as needed.
- Allow the bread to cool before slicing. This allows the bread to set and makes for easier slicing.
- Toasting the walnuts adds a layer of nuttiness and crunch to the bread, but they can be omitted if desired.
With these tips in mind, you are sure to create a delicious banana bread that will have your family and friends begging for more.
Conclusion
The banana bread recipe from America's Test Kitchen is a tried and true favorite that's perfect for any occasion. With its moist texture, sweet banana flavor, and simple ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and produces perfect results every time.