Banana Bread with Caramel Glaze
Introduction:
Banana bread is a classic favorite, but by adding a marble swirl and a decadent caramel glaze, you can transform it into a special treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of soft, moist bread with chocolate swirls and a sweet glaze creates a loaf that’s both a dessert and a temptation.
Ingredients:
For the Banana Bread:
. 2-3 ripe bananas, mashed
. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
. 3/4 cup sugar
. 2 large eggs
. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
. 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
. 1 teaspoon baking soda
. 1/4 teaspoon salt
. 1/4 cup cocoa powder
. 2 tablespoons milk
For the Caramel Glaze:
. 1/2 cup brown sugar
. 1/4 cup heavy cream
. 1/4 cup unsalted butter
. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
. A pinch of salt
Optional: chopped nuts or toffee bits for topping
Instructions:
1. Preparation:
. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
. Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Banana Bread Batter:
. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until well combined.
. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, mixing until well combined.
3. Marble Pattern:
. Divide the batter into two equal parts.
. In one part, mix cocoa powder and milk until smooth.
. Alternate spoonfuls of banana batter and chocolate batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a knife or skewer to create a marbled pattern.
4. Baking:
. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Caramel Glaze:
. In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, cream, and butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until it starts to boil.
. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
. Let the glaze cool until slightly thickened, then drizzle it over the cooled banana bread. Sprinkle with chopped nuts or toffee bits if desired.
6. Serving:
. Once the glaze has set, slice the banana bread and serve. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
. Store any leftovers in a sealed container.
7. Conclusion:
Marble Banana Bread with Caramel Glaze offers a delightful twist on the traditional recipe, combining the familiar flavors of banana bread with rich chocolate and buttery caramel. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a dessert, this bread is sure to impress. Next time you have ripe bananas, give this recipe a try and indulge in creating something uniquely delicious in your kitchen.
