Salted Caramel Banana Bread

Banana bread is a beloved classic, but when you add a luscious salted caramel glaze, it takes this treat to a whole new level. This Salted Caramel Banana Bread is moist, flavorful, and topped with a rich caramel glaze that adds the perfect touch of sweetness and a hint of salt. Let’s dive into the step-by-step recipe to create this indulgent dessert.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup butter (1 stick), room temperature
• 2 eggs
• 1/3 cup sour cream
• 4 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Salted Caramel Glaze:

• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1/3 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Banana Bread Batter

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
   • In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
   • Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. Incorporate Bananas and Sour Cream:
   • Mix in the mashed bananas and sour cream until well combined.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 2: Bake the Banana Bread

1. Transfer to Pan:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
2. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Cool:
   • Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Salted Caramel Glaze

1. Melt Sugar and Butter:
   • In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar and butter. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is well combined.
2. Add Cream:
   • Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a boil. Let it boil for about 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.
3. Add Powdered Sugar and Salt:
   • Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar until smooth. Stir in the kosher salt.

Step 4: Glaze the Banana Bread

1. Glaze Bread:
   • Once the banana bread is completely cooled, pour the salted caramel glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.
2. Set:
   • Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.

Cooking Notes and Tips

• Bananas: Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor and sweetness.
• Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the bread tender and moist.
• Cooling: Ensure the bread is completely cooled before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting and becoming too runny.

Variations

Nutty Banana Bread

• Add Nuts:
  • Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch and flavor.

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

• Add Chocolate:
  • Mix in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey twist.

Spiced Banana Bread

• Add Spices:
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg and a dash of ground cloves to the batter for a spiced flavor.

Serving Suggestions

With Coffee

• Coffee Pairing:
  • Serve a slice of salted caramel banana bread with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or snack.

With Ice Cream

• Ice Cream:
  • Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

With Fresh Fruit

• Fruit:
  • Pair with fresh fruit such as strawberries or blueberries for a balanced treat.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this banana bread ahead of time? A: Yes, you can bake the banana bread a day in advance and glaze it before serving. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Q: Can I freeze banana bread? A: Yes, you can freeze the banana bread (without the glaze) for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw at room temperature before glazing and serving.

Q: What if I don’t have sour cream? A: You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or buttermilk.

Q: Can I make this recipe into muffins? A: Yes, you can pour the batter into a muffin tin lined with paper liners and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Salted Caramel Banana Bread is a delicious and indulgent twist on the classic banana bread. With its moist texture, rich flavors, and decadent salted caramel glaze, this banana bread is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful recipe with your loved ones!