Thanksgiving Whole-Banana Bread

Name

Whole-Banana Bread Ingredients: - 4 large ripe bananas - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened - 3/4 cup granulated sugar - 1 large egg, at room temperature - 1 tsp vanilla extract - 1.5 cups all-purpose flour - 1 tsp baking soda - 1/2 tsp salt - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until they form a smooth paste. Set aside.
3. In another large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes.
4. Add the egg and vanilla extract into the butter mixture and beat for another minute until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
5. Gradually add in the mashed bananas, beating gently after each addition until fully incorporated. The batter will be thick but smooth.
6. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
7. Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture while stirring on low speed. Mix just until everything is evenly combined; do not overmix! If you're adding nuts, fold them in by hand now.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Tent with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking if necessary to prevent overbrowning.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before slicing and serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. Enjoy your delicious whole-banana bread!