What You’ll Need
Here are the ingredients you’ll gather for your delicious banana loaf:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 beaten egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
For the Coffee Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons brewed coffee
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Feel free to use unsalted butter for a less salty taste, or swap in whole wheat flour for a healthier twist!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas with melted butter.
- Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well mixed.
- Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture, then stir to combine. Gradually add the flour, mixing until just incorporated to avoid overmixing.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the glaze, in a bowl, mix powdered sugar, brewed coffee, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled banana bread.
- Slice and serve!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This delicious coffee iced banana loaf is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some enjoyable ways to enjoy your freshly baked loaf:
- With a Cup of Coffee: The combination of banana bread and coffee is heavenly, making it a perfect morning treat.
- As a Dessert: A slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is pure bliss.
- Toast It: Warm it slightly and spread a pat of butter or cream cheese for a delightful twist.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your Homemade Coffee Iced Banana Loaf fresh, follow these guidelines:
- Room Temperature: Wrap the loaf in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate: For longer storage, place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- Freezing: You can also freeze slices in a plastic bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
Helpful Cooking Tips
To elevate your baking experience:
- Bananas: The riper the bananas, the better! They should be browned for the best flavor.
- Mix Carefully: Be cautious not to overmix your batter after adding the flour, as this can lead to a dense loaf.
- Add Nuts or Chocolate: Consider tossing in some walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for a delightful twist!
Creative Twists
If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some variations you might enjoy:
- Nutty Banana Loaf: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for some crunch.
- Cinnamon-Spiced: Introduce 1 teaspoon of cinnamon for a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Caramel Drizzle: Swap the coffee glaze with a rich caramel sauce for a different sweet note.
FAQs
What can I use instead of eggs?
You can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana as a substitute for the egg.
How long does it take to bake?
The baking time is approximately 60 minutes, but keep an eye on it and adjust if necessary based on your oven.
Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely! Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
With these detailed steps and this scrumptious recipe, you’re all set to create an unforgettable Homemade Coffee Iced Banana Loaf that will leave everyone asking for more!
