There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked blueberry Banana Bread wafting through the house. This delightful recipe combines ripe bananas and juicy blueberries, resulting in a moist and flavorful treat that’s perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe accessible and utterly satisfying.
When I was a child, my grandmother used to bake this wonderfully fragrant bread every Saturday. The entire family would gather in the kitchen, eagerly waiting for it to come out of the oven. To this day, the sweet smell of bananas mixed with blueberries brings back those warm family memories that I cherish deeply.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This blueberry Banana Bread recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly moist and stays fresh for days, thanks to the natural sweetness and moisture from the bananas. The blueberries add a burst of juiciness that elevates the flavor to a whole new level. This recipe is also a one-bowl wonder, making cleanup a breeze. You’ll appreciate how easily it can be customized to suit dietary preferences, whether you need it gluten-free or vegan.
Ingredients Notes
Let’s talk about the stars of this recipe:
- Bananas: Use ripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Blueberries: Fresh or frozen blueberries work well, just be sure to thaw and drain if using frozen.
- Flour: All-purpose can be swapped for whole wheat for a healthier twist.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar is standard, but you can substitute with coconut sugar or honey for a more wholesome version.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan. This ensures even baking and easy removal.
Step 2
In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork. Add sugar, melted butter, and a dash of vanilla. Mix until combined.
Step 3
Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Incorporate flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing.
Step 4
Gently fold in the blueberries with a spatula, being careful not to crush them.
Step 5
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Storage Options
Store your blueberry Banana Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you wish to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to a week. For freezing, slice the bread and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw slices at room temperature, and reheat using a toaster or microwave for a warm treat.
Variations & Substitutions
Consider using gluten-free flour to make this recipe gluten-free. If you prefer a nutty flavor, add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. For a vegan version, replace the eggs with flax eggs and use coconut oil instead of butter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your blueberry Banana Bread warm, with a pat of butter or a dollop of cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. This bread is a fantastic addition to brunch spreads or as an afternoon pick-me-up snack.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen blueberries? Yes, frozen blueberries work just as well as fresh. Make sure to thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
What if I don’t have ripe bananas? If your bananas aren’t quite ripe, you can speed up the process by placing them in a brown paper bag for a day or two. Alternatively, roast them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes to enhance sweetness.
Can I make muffins with this recipe? Absolutely! Simply divide the batter evenly into a muffin tin lined with paper liners. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Blueberry Banana Bread
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 cup sugar granulated
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 3 pieces bananas ripe & mashed
- 1 cup blueberries fresh or frozen
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 0.25 tsp salt
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In another bowl, mix the melted butter and sugar until well blended. Stir in the beaten eggs and vanilla extract.
- Mash the bananas and add them to the wet mixture, stirring well.
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Carefully fold in the blueberries.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into 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.