Blueberry Banana Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Blueberry Banana Bread is a delightful variation of the classic banana bread, with the addition of blueberries for a burst of fruitiness in every bite. The bread is incredibly moist, thanks to the bananas, while the blueberries add a sweet, juicy surprise in the middle. It’s a perfect way to use overripe bananas and enjoy a flavorful treat that’s easy to make. Whether you serve it warm with a pat of butter or enjoy it on its own, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe bananas (mashed)

• 1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen, if preferred)

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1 large egg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/4 cup milk (or buttermilk for added tang)

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for added crunch)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Prepare the dry ingredients:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Set aside.

3. Mix the wet ingredients:

1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).

2. Add the mashed bananas and mix until fully incorporated.

3. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and continue to mix until smooth.

4. Combine wet and dry ingredients:

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.

2. Gently fold in the blueberries and nuts (if using), ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

5. Bake the bread:

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.

2. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking.

6. Cool and serve:

1. Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

2. Serve warm with a spread of butter or enjoy as-is.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 8-10 slices

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 60-70 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate chips: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for a richer, indulgent flavor.

• Vegan version: Replace the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute, and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) instead of the egg.

• Zesty twist: Add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus note that pairs beautifully with the blueberries.

• Frozen blueberries: If using frozen blueberries, don’t thaw them first—this helps prevent the berries from bleeding into the batter.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Blueberry Banana Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

• Freezing: The bread freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave individual slices for a quick snack.

• Reheating: To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just be sure to fold them gently into the batter while still frozen to prevent them from turning the batter purple.

2. How can I prevent the blueberries from sinking to the bottom?

Toss the blueberries in a little bit of flour before adding them to the batter. This will help suspend them evenly throughout the bread.

3. Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that your baking powder and baking soda are also gluten-free.

4. How do I know when the banana bread is done?

To check if the bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is ready. If it’s still wet, continue baking and check every 5-10 minutes.

5. Can I make this banana bread without sugar?

You can reduce the sugar or substitute it with a natural sweetener like maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar. Keep in mind that this may change the flavor and texture of the bread slightly.

6. Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Yes, you can add chopped walnuts, pecans, or any other nuts you like. They add a nice crunch and complement the softness of the bananas and blueberries.

7. Can I make this banana bread in muffin form?

Yes! You can make banana bread muffins by dividing the batter into a greased muffin tin. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

8. Can I use overripe bananas?

Yes, overripe bananas are perfect for banana bread. They’re sweeter and more flavorful, making them ideal for this recipe.

9. How do I keep the banana bread moist?

The banana bread stays moist because of the ripe bananas and the addition of milk. Make sure to not overbake it, as this can dry it out.

10. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and store it for a few days. In fact, the flavors often deepen and improve the next day.

Conclusion

Blueberry Banana Bread is the perfect combination of sweet, moist, and fruity goodness. The burst of blueberries paired with the soft texture of the bananas creates a truly irresistible treat. It’s easy to make and makes for a great snack or breakfast option. Whether you’re looking to use up ripe bananas or just craving something sweet and comforting, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or as an afternoon treat—either way, you’re in for a delicious experience!

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