The Perfect Monsoon Banana Bread

As the monsoon clouds gather and raindrops dance outside your window, there's nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked banana bread to add warmth and comfort to your day. This delightful treat is a perfect combination of ripe bananas, aromatic spices, and a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Here, we will share a special banana bread recipe that promises to bring a burst of happiness to your monsoon days.

Also Read: Kozhikode's Iconic Banana Halwa: Soft Rubber Texture Sweet

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• A pinch of ground nutmeg
• A pinch of ground cloves
• 1/4 cup milk

Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for added texture

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the melted butter and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine.
3. Add the brown sugar to the banana mixture and mix until the sugar is fully incorporated.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
6. If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for an extra crunch or sweetness.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
8. Bake the banana bread in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
9. Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
10. Gently transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Tips:

1. Use overripe bananas for the best flavour and natural sweetness.
2. Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. You can also add a pinch of ground ginger for an extra kick of warmth.
3. If you prefer a healthier version, you can substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
4. To keep the banana bread moist, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

Indulging in a slice of freshly baked banana bread during the monsoon is a simple pleasure that brings immense joy. This easy-to-follow recipe allows you to savour the magic of the rainy season from the comfort of your home. So, the next time the rain pours down, immerse yourself in the soothing aroma and heavenly taste of this perfect monsoon banana bread.