Best Banana Bread with Walnuts and Raisins

Ingredients:

• • 3 ripe bananas, mashed with a fork
  • ½ cup butter (1 stick) at room temperature
  • 3/4 cup white sugar (or use 1 scant cup of honey)

• • 2 eggs, room temperature
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda

• • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp real vanilla extract
  • 1 cup walnuts, toasted and coarsely chopped

• ½ cup raisins

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    

   • Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Bananas:
   • • In a bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Set aside.

    

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
   • • In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar (or honey) together until light and fluffy.
     • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

    

   • Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

    

5. Mix Together:
   • • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
     • Fold in the toasted walnuts and raisins.

    

6. Bake:
   • • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
     • Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

    

7. Cool:
   • • Remove from the oven and let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
     • Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

    

Serving Suggestions:

• • Enjoy warm with a pat of butter.

• Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt for breakfast.
• Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon snack.

Cooking Tips:

• • Use ripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness.
  • To toast walnuts, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Ensure the eggs and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing and a better texture.

Nutritional Benefits:

• • Bananas: Provide potassium, fiber, and natural sweetness.
  • Walnuts: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and antioxidants.

• Raisins: Add natural sweetness and are a good source of iron.

Dietary Information:

• • Contains dairy, eggs, and nuts.

• Can be made gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage:

• • Store any leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.