This raisin nut banana bread has a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The raisin nut bran cereal adds a nutty crunch and a hint of sweetness, while the ripe banana gives it a moist and tender crumb. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, this bread is a crowd-pleaser.
One of the key ingredients in this recipe is raisin nut bran cereal, which might not be commonly found in everyone's pantry. Make sure to pick up a box from the cereal aisle at your local supermarket. This ingredient adds a unique taste and texture that sets this banana bread apart from others.
Ingredients for Delicious Raisin Nut Banana Bread Recipe
raisin nut bran cereal: This cereal adds a delightful crunch and sweet flavor from the raisins and nuts.
milk: Helps to soften the cereal and adds moisture to the bread.
all purpose flour: Forms the base of the bread, providing structure and texture.
baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the bread rise and become fluffy.
baking soda: Works with the baking powder to give the bread its light texture.
salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
ripe banana: Adds natural sweetness and moisture, making the bread tender.
white sugar: Sweetens the bread and adds to its moist texture.
brown sugar: Adds a deeper, caramel-like sweetness and moisture.
vegetable oil: Provides fat to keep the bread moist and tender.
egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
One reader, Cecily Conley says:
This delicious raisin nut banana bread recipe is a hit! The bread is moist, flavorful, and perfectly sweet. The combination of ripe bananas and crunchy nuts creates a delightful texture. It's easy to make and perfect for breakfast or a snack. Highly recommend giving it a try!
Techniques Required for Making Raisin Nut Banana Bread
How to mash bananas: Use a fork or potato masher to mash the ripe bananas until smooth. How to sift dry ingredients: Use a sifter or fine-mesh strainer to aerate and remove lumps from the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. How to combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing. How to test for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean, the bread is done.
How To Make Delicious Raisin Nut Banana Bread
True to its name, this delicious banana bread makes a rich and fluffy bread from the combination of raisin nut bran cereal and sweet ripe bananas.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2cupsraisin nut bran cereal
- ½cupmilk
- 1½cupsall purpose flour
- 3½tspbaking powder
- 1tspbaking soda
- ¼tspsalt
- 1cupripe banana,mashed
- ½cupwhite sugar
- ¼cupbrown sugar
- ¼cupvegetable oil
- 1egg
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease the bottom of a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
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In a bowl, combine the raisin nut bran cereal and milk. Let stand for 5 minutes.
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In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In a separate bowl, beat together mashed banana, sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil and egg.
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Combine the cereal and banana mixtures. Stir in the flour mixture just until combined, then pour the batter into prepared pan.
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Bake in the oven for 50 to 55 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into center of loaf comes out clean. Let cool before slicing.
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Serve and enjoy.
Nutrition
- Calories: 210.63kcal
- Fat: 6.13g
- Saturated Fat: 0.76g
- Trans Fat: 0.11g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.73g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.14g
- Carbohydrates: 37.17g
- Fiber: 1.99g
- Sugar: 17.22g
- Protein: 3.36g
- Cholesterol: 14.35mg
- Sodium: 271.32mg
- Calcium: 122.63mg
- Potassium: 135.10mg
- Iron: 2.02mg
- Vitamin A: 10.97µg
- Vitamin C: 1.66mg
Helpful Technique for Perfecting This Banana Bread Recipe
To ensure your banana bread has a moist and tender crumb, make sure not to overmix the batter once you combine the flour mixture with the banana mixture. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a denser, tougher loaf. Stir just until the ingredients are incorporated.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe
Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This helps streamline the cooking process.
Use a food processor: Quickly mash the ripe banana and mix the sugars using a food processor to save time.
Preheat the oven early: Turn on the oven before you start mixing to ensure it’s ready when you are.
Soak cereal ahead: Combine the raisin nut bran cereal and milk first, allowing it to soak while you prepare other ingredients.
Line the loaf pan: Use parchment paper to line the loaf pan for easy removal and less cleanup.
Substitute Ingredients For Delicious Raisin Nut Banana Bread Recipe
raisin nut bran cereal - Substitute with rolled oats and chopped nuts: Rolled oats provide a similar texture and chopped nuts add the nutty flavor.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a good dairy-free alternative that maintains the moisture in the bread.
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the bread denser.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use 1/4 tsp baking soda and 1/2 tsp cream of tartar for each tsp of baking powder.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use 3 tsp of baking powder for each tsp of baking soda, but omit any salt in the recipe.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral content.
ripe banana - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used to maintain moisture and sweetness, though the flavor will differ.
white sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a caramel-like flavor.
brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a rich, complex sweetness and moisture to the bread.
vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and adds a subtle coconut flavor.
egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water: Mix 1 tbsp of flaxseed meal with 3 tbsp of water to replace one egg, which works well as a binder and adds fiber.
Presentation Ideas for Raisin Nut Banana Bread
Serve smaller portion sizes: Slice the raisin nut banana bread into elegant, thin slices to create a refined presentation. This allows the intricate flavors to be savored in smaller, more delicate bites.
Use decoration: Garnish each slice with a light dusting of powdered sugar and a few whole raisins and nuts to highlight the key ingredients. Add a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color and freshness.
Plate with complementary flavors: Serve the banana bread with a side of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy texture will complement the moistness of the bread.
Add a sauce: Drizzle a thin line of caramel sauce or honey on the plate before placing the slice of banana bread. This adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful visual element.
Use elegant dishware: Present the banana bread on a sleek, white porcelain plate to make the colors and textures of the dish stand out. The simplicity of the plate will enhance the sophistication of the presentation.
Incorporate texture: Add a small handful of toasted nuts on the side of the plate. This provides a crunchy contrast to the soft texture of the banana bread.
Highlight the ingredients: Place a small bowl of fresh banana slices and raisins next to the banana bread. This visually reinforces the main components of the dish and adds an element of freshness.
Create height: Stack two thin slices of banana bread slightly offset from each other to create a sense of height and dimension on the plate. This adds visual interest and sophistication.
Use a clean presentation: Ensure the plate is spotless before serving. Any smudges or crumbs should be wiped away to maintain a professional and polished look.
Add a touch of luxury: For an extra touch of elegance, consider adding a few edible gold flakes on top of the banana bread. This adds a luxurious and eye-catching element to the presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Raisin Nut Banana Bread
Oven: Used to bake the banana bread at a consistent temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Loaf pan: A 9x5-inch pan to shape and hold the banana bread batter while it bakes.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl to combine the dry ingredients and another bowl for the wet ingredients.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, milk, and cereal.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities of ingredients like baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Spatula: Handy for mixing the wet and dry ingredients together without over-mixing.
Whisk: Useful for beating together the mashed banana, sugars, oil, and egg.
Sifter: Helps to sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together to ensure even distribution.
Toothpick: Used to check if the banana bread is fully baked by inserting it into the center of the loaf.
Cooling rack: Allows the banana bread to cool evenly after baking.
Grease brush: Used to lightly grease the bottom of the loaf pan to prevent sticking.
Fork: Useful for mashing the ripe banana.
Timer: Ensures the bread is baked for the correct amount of time, between 50 to 55 minutes.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Raisin Nut Banana Bread
Allow the banana bread to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent moisture from building up and making the bread soggy.
To store at room temperature, wrap the cooled banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep for up to 3-4 days at room temperature.
For longer storage, you can refrigerate the wrapped banana bread for up to 1 week. The refrigerator may dry out the bread slightly, so it's best to consume it within a week.
To freeze the banana bread:
- Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
- Follow up by wrapping the loaf in a layer of aluminum foil or placing it in a freezer-safe bag.
- Label the wrapped loaf with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
When ready to enjoy the frozen banana bread, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature, still wrapped. This will take about 2-3 hours.
If you prefer to freeze individual slices for quick snacks or portion control:
- Slice the cooled banana bread into desired portions.
- Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label the bag or container with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To thaw individual slices, remove the desired number of slices from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes.
For a quick treat, you can also reheat a frozen slice of banana bread in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or until warmed through.
How To Reheat Leftover Banana Bread
To reheat leftover banana bread, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bread loosely in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through and the exterior is slightly crisp. This method helps to restore the bread's texture and keeps it moist.
For a quicker option, you can use a toaster oven. Slice the banana bread and place it directly on the toaster oven rack. Toast for 3-4 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of warmth and crispiness. This method is perfect for individual slices and results in a slightly crunchy exterior.
If you prefer a softer texture, you can use the microwave. Place a slice of banana bread on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 15-20 seconds. If it's not warm enough, continue heating in 10-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat, as the bread can become tough or rubbery.
For a delightful twist, try toasting a slice of banana bread in a skillet with a bit of butter. Melt a small amount of butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the slice of bread and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until it's golden brown and crispy. This method adds a rich, buttery flavor to the bread.
If you have multiple slices to reheat, you can use a steamer basket. Fill a pot with a few inches of water and bring it to a simmer. Place the banana bread slices in a steamer basket and set it over the simmering water. Cover the pot and steam for 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is heated through. This method helps to maintain the bread's moisture and softness.
Interesting Fact About Raisin Nut Banana Bread
A random fact about this banana bread recipe is that the inclusion of raisin nut bran cereal adds a unique texture and extra nutrients, making it a more wholesome treat compared to traditional banana bread.
Is Making Raisin Nut Banana Bread at Home Cost-Effective?
This raisin nut banana bread recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like banana, flour, and milk are affordable and commonly found in most kitchens. The use of raisin nut bran cereal adds a nutritious twist without significantly increasing the cost. Overall, this recipe scores an 8 out of 10 in terms of cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $6-$8 USD, making it an economical choice for a delicious homemade dessert.
Is This Raisin Nut Banana Bread Healthy or Unhealthy?
This raisin nut banana bread recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutritious ingredients like raisin nut bran cereal, which provides fiber and essential nutrients, and ripe bananas, which offer potassium and vitamins. The use of whole milk and eggs also adds protein and calcium to the bread.
However, the recipe contains a significant amount of added sugars, with both white and brown sugar, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues if consumed in large quantities. The use of all-purpose flour and vegetable oil may also be considered less healthy compared to whole grain flour and healthier oil alternatives.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
- Reduce the amount of added sugars by using only ¼ cup of each type of sugar or substituting with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup
- Swap the vegetable oil for healthier options like coconut oil or olive oil
- Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to increase the protein and healthy fat content
- Experiment with using unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt as a partial substitute for the oil to reduce the overall fat content while maintaining moisture
By incorporating these changes, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of this raisin nut banana bread that still retains its delicious flavor and texture.
Editor's Opinion on This Raisin Nut Banana Bread Recipe
This raisin nut banana bread recipe is a delightful twist on a classic. The use of raisin nut bran cereal adds a unique texture and flavor, while the combination of ripe bananas and a mix of white and brown sugar ensures a moist and sweet loaf. The balance of baking powder and baking soda provides a good rise, and the vegetable oil keeps it tender. It's a straightforward recipe that yields a deliciously wholesome bread, perfect for breakfast or a snack. The only improvement might be adding a touch of cinnamon or vanilla for extra depth.
Enhance Your Delicious Raisin Nut Banana Bread Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Raisin Nut Banana Bread
Appetizer and Main Dish Ideas to Serve with Raisin Nut Banana Bread
Why trust this Delicious Raisin Nut Banana Bread Recipe:
This raisin nut banana bread recipe is a must-try for several reasons. The combination of raisin nut bran cereal and ripe bananas creates a moist, flavorful loaf that is both nutritious and delicious. The use of both white sugar and brown sugar adds a depth of sweetness, while the vegetable oil ensures a tender crumb. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Trust in the quality and taste of this delightful bread to impress your family and friends.
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