Buttermilk Banana Bread

Introduction

Banana bread is a classic comfort food, but adding buttermilk takes it to the next level. Buttermilk Banana Bread is incredibly moist, tender, and flavorful, with a subtle tang from the buttermilk that balances the sweetness of ripe bananas. This loaf is perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert, offering a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s rich yet light.

The beauty of buttermilk in banana bread is that it reacts with baking soda, helping the bread rise beautifully while keeping it tender. Combined with ripe bananas, a hint of vanilla, and optional add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, this loaf is a crowd-pleasing favorite that elevates a simple treat into a gourmet experience.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it produces a loaf that is consistently moist, flavorful, and tender. The buttermilk adds a subtle tang and keeps the crumb soft, while the bananas provide natural sweetness and aroma. The bread is versatile—enjoy it fresh from the oven, toasted with butter, or turned into decadent French toast.

Another reason I adore it is the balance of flavors and textures. The slightly tangy buttermilk complements the sweet, rich bananas, while optional nuts add crunch and chocolate chips add indulgence. It’s a comforting, nostalgic recipe that always brings joy and satisfies cravings.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because it offers:

1. Extra Moisture: Buttermilk ensures a tender, soft crumb.
2. Rich Flavor: Bananas and vanilla create a comforting aroma and taste.
3. Easy to Make: Simple ingredients, straightforward method.
4. Versatility: Perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert, and can be customized.

It’s an elevated take on classic banana bread that’s suitable for bakers of all levels, producing reliable, delicious results every time.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10–15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50–60 minutes
• Total Time: 60–75 minutes

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 8–10 slices
• Calories per Serving: ~230 kcal

Recipe Details

• Course: Breakfast / Snack / Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 3–4 overripe bananas, mashed (about 1 ½ cups)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (or ½ cup vegetable oil)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar (or ½ cup for less sweetness)
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• ½ cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips (optional)

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
2. Mash Bananas: In a large bowl, mash the overripe bananas until smooth.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in melted butter, sugar, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
6. Add Optional Mix-ins: Fold in nuts or chocolate chips if desired.
7. Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
8. Bake: Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve

• Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
• Spread with butter, nut butter, or cream cheese for added indulgence.
• Pair with coffee, tea, or milk for breakfast or snack.
• Optional: Toast slices for a slight crunch with a soft interior.

Recipe Tips

• Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and moisture.
• Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense loaf.
• Ensure the buttermilk is at room temperature for even mixing.
• Check with a toothpick for doneness—every oven varies.
• Optional: lightly toast nuts before adding for enhanced flavor.

Variations

1. Chocolate Chip Buttermilk Banana Bread: Add ½ cup chocolate chips.
2. Nutty Banana Bread: Add ½ cup walnuts or pecans for crunch.
3. Cinnamon Swirl: Add ½ tsp cinnamon or swirl cinnamon sugar into batter.
4. Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs and butter with coconut oil.
5. Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

Freezing & Storage

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil or store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Fork or potato masher
• Whisk or spatula
• Wire cooling rack
• Measuring cups and spoons

Conclusion

Buttermilk Banana Bread is a moist, tender, and flavorful loaf that elevates classic banana bread with the subtle tang of buttermilk. Perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert, it’s easy to make and endlessly customizable. With the perfect balance of sweetness, richness, and aroma, this banana bread becomes a comforting staple that’s sure to delight family and friends.

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Buttermilk Banana Bread

Author: admin Cuisine: American Courses: Appetizer & Snacks, Breakfast, Desserts

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 60 mins Total Time 1 hr 15 mins

Calories: per Serving: ~230 kcal

Description

Banana bread is a classic comfort food, but adding buttermilk takes it to the next level. Buttermilk Banana Bread is incredibly moist, tender, and flavorful, with a subtle tang from the buttermilk that balances the sweetness of ripe bananas.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 3 overripe 3–4 bananas, mashed (about 1 ½ cups)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (or ½ cup vegetable oil)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar (or ½ cup for less sweetness)
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• ½ cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
2. Mash Bananas: In a large bowl, mash the overripe bananas until smooth.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in melted butter, sugar, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
6. Add Optional Mix-ins: Fold in nuts or chocolate chips if desired.
7. Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
8. Bake: Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Keywords: Buttermilk Banana Bread