Ever had a banana bread that practically teleports you to a tropical paradise? This one does just that! With a few unique twists, like dark rum (or apple cider, if you’re keeping it cozy) and a dash of sweetened coconut, this Jamaican-inspired banana bread is anything but ordinary. Imagine the classic, comforting taste of banana bread, but with a breeze of island flavor that makes every bite feel like a little vacation.
Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread:
- Tropical Flavor: A hint of dark rum and coconut make this banana bread taste like a getaway.
- Moist & Tender Texture: With mashed bananas and yogurt, this loaf is incredibly soft and stays moist for days.
- Easy-to-Find Ingredients: Most of what you need is probably in your pantry. Just grab a few tropical extras, and you’re set!
Let’s dive into how to make this deliciously easy loaf of heaven:
Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 bananas)
- 1/4 cup plain low-fat yogurt (or pina colada flavored!)
- 3 tablespoons dark rum OR apple cider
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Tropical Twist:
- 1/2 cup flaked sweetened coconut, plus 1 tablespoon for sprinkling
- Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lime or lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures your loaf rises evenly and is light and tender.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the sugar and softened butter together until fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each one for a smooth texture.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Mix in the mashed bananas, yogurt, rum (or apple cider), and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. This step gives your banana bread all that moisture and flavor.
- Fold in Coconut: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Add 1/2 cup of the coconut flakes and pour the batter into your prepared pan. Sprinkle the remaining tablespoon of coconut on top for a beautiful toasted finish.
- Bake: Bake for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Glaze It: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lime or lemon juice. Drizzle this over the bread while it’s still slightly warm.
Serve and Enjoy
Slice into your masterpiece and taste the hint of lime mingling with banana and coconut – a slice of paradise on your plate! This bread is perfect for breakfast, snack, or a sweet treat any time you need a break from the ordinary.
Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to banana bread. Enjoy the journey to Jamaica, one slice at a time!