Bourbon Banana Bread

Bourbon Banana Bread combines the comforting sweetness of banana bread with a hint of bourbon’s rich, warming flavor. This moist, nutty loaf is perfect for an indulgent snack, breakfast, or dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Unique Flavor Twist: The bourbon adds depth to the classic banana bread.
  • Moist and Nutty: Mashed bananas and chopped walnuts create the perfect texture.
  • Versatile Treat: Enjoy it plain, with butter, or toasted.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 teaspoon fine-grain salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 5 1/3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2/3 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 2 very ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1/2 cup coarsely chopped walnuts
  • 1 tablespoon bourbon

Directions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

  1. Position a rack in the lower third of your oven. Preheat it to 350°F.
  2. Butter a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set it aside.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

  1. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. You can use a fork, hand mixer, or stand mixer for this step.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

  1. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until it resembles the texture of damp sand.
  2. Slowly beat in the eggs until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Fold in the Additions

  1. Gently fold in the mashed bananas, walnuts, and bourbon until just combined.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

  1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
  2. Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

  1. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Servings and Timing

  • Yield: 1 loaf (8 servings)
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

  • Boozier Bread: Double the bourbon for a stronger flavor.
  • Chocolate Banana Bread: Fold in 1/2 cup chocolate chips.
  • Nut-Free Option: Omit the walnuts or replace them with dried fruit.
  • Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Storage and Reheating

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigeration: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 1 week.
  • Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

FAQs

1. Can I skip the bourbon?

Yes, simply omit it, or replace it with a teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor.

2. Can I use other nuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds make great substitutes for walnuts.

3. How can I make the bread sweeter?

Add 2–3 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup for a touch of extra sweetness.

4. Can I use overripe bananas?

Yes! Overripe bananas enhance the flavor and moisture.

5. Can I use a different pan size?

For smaller pans, divide the batter evenly and reduce baking time to 35–40 minutes.

6. Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?

Yes, bake the batter in a muffin tin for 18–22 minutes.

7. What pairs well with this bread?

Serve with coffee, tea, or a dollop of whipped cream.

8. How do I prevent my bread from sticking to the pan?

Grease the pan generously and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

9. Can I add spices?

Yes! Cinnamon or nutmeg pairs beautifully with the banana and bourbon flavors.

10. How do I know the bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready.

Conclusion

Bourbon Banana Bread is a delightful twist on a classic recipe. The rich bourbon flavor, combined with moist bananas and crunchy walnuts, makes this bread an irresistible treat. Whether for breakfast or dessert, it’s a must-try for any baking enthusiast!

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Bourbon Banana Bread

Bourbon Banana Bread

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  • Author: fella
  • Prep Time: 10min
  • Cook Time: 50 min
  • Total Time: 1hour
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Quick Bread, Dessert
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Elevate your banana bread game with this Bourbon Banana Bread recipe. Infused with bourbon, ripe bananas, and crunchy walnuts, this moist bread is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack.


Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 teaspoon fine grain salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

Wet Ingredients:

  • 5 1/3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2/3 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 2 very ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1 tablespoon bourbon

Mix-Ins:

  • 1/2 cup coarsely chopped walnuts

Instructions

Prepare for Baking

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or line with parchment paper.
  2. Position a rack in the lower third of the oven.

Mix Dry Ingredients

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

  1. In a large bowl, use a sturdy fork, whisk, or stand mixer to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Incorporate Eggs and Dry Ingredients

  1. Gradually mix in the eggs, ensuring a smooth consistency.
  2. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until the texture resembles damp, coarse crumbs.

Add Flavor and Mix-Ins

  1. Fold in the mashed bananas, chopped walnuts, and bourbon. Gently mix until evenly distributed.

Bake

  1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
  2. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

  1. Let the bread cool in the pan on a wire rack for 5–10 minutes, then remove and allow to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

  • For a bolder bourbon flavor, increase the bourbon to 2 tablespoons.
  • Use pecans instead of walnuts for a twist.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week.

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