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Better Than Starbucks Banana Walnut Bread

Banana walnut bread is a quintessential comfort food that has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of many. While Starbucks has popularised its own version, there are countless recipes out there that promise to elevate this classic treat. In this article, we will delve into what makes banana walnut bread truly exceptional and provide you with a recipe that might just be better than your local café’s offering.

The Allure of Banana Walnut Bread

The combination of ripe bananas and crunchy walnuts creates a delightful balance of sweetness and texture that is hard to resist. Banana walnut bread is loved for its moist crumb and rich taste, making it an ideal snack for any time of day. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast item, a midday treat, or a dessert, it offers a satisfying experience that warms the soul.

Why Make Your Own?

While grabbing a slice from Starbucks is a convenient option, making your own banana walnut bread allows for a more personalised touch. You can control the ingredients, adjust the sweetness to your liking, and even add extra elements like spices or chocolate chips. Plus, there’s something undeniably rewarding about pulling a freshly baked loaf from the oven, filling your kitchen with its irresistible aroma.

The Recipe: Better Than Starbucks Banana Walnut Bread

Here’s a simple yet delectable recipe that promises to yield a moist and flavourful banana walnut bread – perfect for impressing family and friends!

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas (the riper, the better!)
• 75g unsalted butter, melted
• 150g granulated sugar (or to taste)
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
• A pinch of salt
• 190g plain flour
• 100g walnuts, roughly chopped (you can also toast them for added flavour)
• Optional: 50g dark chocolate chips or a sprinkle of cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line a loaf tin with baking parchment.

2. Mash the Bananas: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. You want some lumps for added texture.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the melted butter to the mashed banana and mix well. Then, stir in the beaten egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the plain flour, bicarbonate of soda, and salt. If you’re adding cinnamon, now is the time to include it.

5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense loaf.

6. Add Walnuts: Fold in the chopped walnuts (and chocolate chips if using), ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.

7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.

8. Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing.

Enjoying Your Creation

This banana walnut bread is divine enjoyed warm from the oven, but it can also be stored in an airtight container for several days. It makes a delicious snack, and a slice slathered with butter or cream cheese is simply heavenly.

Conclusion

With this recipe, you’ll create a banana walnut bread that might very well be better than Starbucks. Its homemade charm and customisable ingredients ensure each bite is a delight. So, grab those overripe bananas resting on your kitchen counter and get baking! Your taste buds will thank you.