The Recipe Read - Banana Loaf

Although I initially aimed to write a 'Recipe Read' post on a weekly basis, with my current university schedule it hasn't so far been possible, but hopefully in the next few weeks I should have a little more free time, so be sure to watch this space!

For this week's very late recipe post, I decided to bake a simple banana loaf as its fruity flavor makes it a perfect treat for the upcoming summer weather - fingers crossed for lots of lovely sun!

 

Although slightly different to a classic banana bread recipe, this banana loaf is just as tasty and much more simple to make, not to mention slightly cheaper too, so perfect for anyone on a budget. Plus, the best thing about this yummy recipe is that it is a perfect way to use up any slightly worse for wear bananas that are lurking in your fruit bowl - waste not, want not, ay!

To bake this delicious treat you will need:

140g of butter
140g of caster sugar
3 medium free-range eggs
140g of self-raising flower
1 tsp baking powder
2 ripe bananas

You will also need:

A loaf tin
Greaseproof paper
A wooden spoon or an electric mixer
A large mixing bowl
A fork for mashing the bananas
A set of scales

The method:

Start by pre-heating your oven to 180 degrees, then butter and line your loaf tin with greaseproof paper.

Then gently cream the butter and sugar together until it is smooth and fluffy. [Helpful hint: pop the butter in the microwave for 30 seconds to soften it slightly to make mixing easier!]

Then add the eggs and stir into the mixture.

Once the eggs are completely mixed in, begin sieving the flour and baking powder into the mixture, folding in small amounts of flour at a time.

Next mash the bananas in a separate bowl and then add to the mixture, making sure to distribute evenly throughout the mix.

Finally pour the mixture into the loaf tin and pop in the oven for 30 to 40 minutes, checking occasionally until golden brown and completely cooked.

Despite the delicious aromas coming off your freshly baked banana loaf, be sure to leave it to cool for a few minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack, and attempting to devour, as not only will it be very hot it may also collapse. You have been warned!

Happy baking!