This Bundt Pan Banana Bread is a cozy treat that’s moist and filled with sweet banana flavor. Its lovely shape makes it perfect for sharing, or just keeping all to yourself! 😄
I love making this banana bread on weekends. The smell of it baking is like a hug for my kitchen, and it’s so easy—just mix, pour, and bake! Enjoy it warm with a little butter!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: Ripe bananas are key for sweetness and flavor. If you don’t have ripe ones, place unripe bananas in a brown paper bag for a day or two to speed up ripening. You can also substitute with 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce for a different twist.
Butter: I recommend using unsalted butter for better control over the salt level. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a vegetable oil can work well too.
Sugar: Regular white sugar is common here, but you can replace it with brown sugar for a deeper flavor. Maple syrup or honey can also be good alternatives; just use 1/2 cup of liquid instead of the 3/4 cup of sugar.
Flour: All-purpose flour is perfect for the texture we want, but if you’re gluten-free, a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour can replace the all-purpose flour without altering the recipe much.
How Do I Avoid Overmixing the Batter?
Mixing too much can lead to dense banana bread. Here’s how to keep it tender:
- First, combine wet ingredients (bananas, butter, sugar, egg, vanilla) until smooth.
- Sprinkle the baking soda and salt on top before adding flour. This helps distribute it evenly.
- Gently fold in the flour using a spatula until just combined. It’s okay if a few flour streaks remain!
- Avoid vigorous stirring, and stop mixing as soon as you don’t see dry flour to keep your bread soft.
How to Make Bundt Pan Banana Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious banana bread will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 55-60 minutes to bake. After baking, allow time for 10-15 minutes to cool before serving. It’s a simple and quick recipe that yields a delightful treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grease your Bundt pan with butter or baking spray. This will help the bread come out easily once it’s baked.
2. Mixing the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted butter. Mix them together until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This gives your bread a lovely banana flavor.
3. Adding Sugar and Egg:
Next, stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the banana mixture. Blend it well so that everything is nicely combined. The sugar and egg will give the bread its sweetness and richness.
4. Incorporating Dry Ingredients:
Now it’s time to sprinkle the baking soda and a pinch of salt over your banana mixture. Stir these in gently. Then, gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your banana bread tender and fluffy!
5. Pouring and Baking:
Pour the batter into your prepared Bundt pan. Use a spatula to help spread it evenly. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 55-60 minutes. You’ll know the bread is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cooling and Serving:
After baking, carefully remove the Bundt pan from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. Once it’s slightly cooled, invert the pan onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice your banana bread and enjoy it as is, or sprinkle it with powdered sugar or add cream cheese frosting for an extra touch!
Can I Use Overripe Bananas?
Absolutely! In fact, overripe bananas are perfect for banana bread because they are sweeter and easier to mash. Just make sure they’re still safe to eat – the browner they are, the better for baking!
What Can I Substitute for All-Purpose Flour?
If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. However, check the blend’s specific instructions, as some may require additional ingredients like xanthan gum for better texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Banana Bread?
Keep your banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and place it in the freezer, where it can last for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I Add Nuts or Chocolate Chips?
Definitely! Feel free to fold in 1/2 to 1 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips into the batter before pouring it into the Bundt pan. This adds a delicious crunch or sweetness to your banana bread!
