Nutella Swirled Banana Bread
There’s something magical about the combination of bananas and Nutella. The rich, chocolatey hazelnut spread pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness and moistness of ripe bananas, creating an indulgent treat that’s hard to resist. This Nutella Swirled Banana Bread is not just any banana bread; it’s a delightful twist on a classic that is sure to impress friends and family alike. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert, this banana bread brings comfort in every bite. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious recipe!
Why I Love This Recipe
This Nutella Swirled Banana Bread checks all the boxes. It’s easy to make, incredibly moist, and bursting with flavor. The best part? You can whip it up in no time, making it a perfect option for those busy mornings or last-minute gatherings. Additionally, it fills your kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of baking bread, creating a cozy atmosphere that’s hard to beat. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste.
What You’ll Need
To make this scrumptious Nutella Swirled Banana Bread, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated white sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mashed ripe banana (about 2-3 bananas)
- ½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup Nutella (chocolate hazelnut spread)
Essential Tools for Success
Before you start baking, make sure you have the right tools on hand:
- Mixing bowls: A large bowl for wet ingredients and a medium bowl for dry ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to success in baking.
- Whisk: For mixing dry ingredients and creaming the butter and sugar.
- Rubber spatula: To fold in ingredients and scrape the bowl clean.
- Loaf pan: A standard 9×5 inch loaf pan is perfect for this recipe.
- Cooling rack: Essential for letting your banana bread cool evenly after baking.
Nutella Swirled Banana Bread: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to create your Nutella Swirled Banana Bread:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your loaf pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use a whisk or an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Bananas
Crack in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, fold in the mashed ripe bananas until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Mix in Yogurt and Vanilla
Add the plain yogurt (or sour cream) and vanilla extract to the banana mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a rubber spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Step 7: Swirl in the Nutella
Spoon half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Then, dollop half of the Nutella on top. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl it into the batter. Repeat this process with the remaining batter and Nutella.
Step 8: Bake
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy your delicious Nutella Swirled Banana Bread!
Season-by-Season Upgrades
Feel free to customize this Nutella Swirled Banana Bread for different seasons:
- Spring: Add a handful of fresh blueberries or strawberries for a fruity twist.
- Summer: Incorporate shredded coconut for a tropical flavor.
- Fall: Mix in some pumpkin spice for a seasonal kick.
- Winter: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them
While making Nutella Swirled Banana Bread is straightforward, here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
- Overmixing: Be gentle when combining wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Underbaking: Always do the toothpick test. If it comes out with wet batter, it needs more time.
- Too Much Nutella: While Nutella is delicious, too much can lead to an overly gooey bread. Stick to the recommended amount.
- Not Using Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s rare!), here’s how to store and enjoy your Nutella Swirled Banana Bread:
Wrap the cooled banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze individual pieces. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm treat.
Nutella Swirled Banana Bread FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour for a healthier option. However, the texture may be denser.
What can I use instead of yogurt or sour cream?
If you don’t have yogurt or sour cream, you can use buttermilk or a non-dairy yogurt alternative for a similar effect.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your baking soda is also gluten-free.
Can I make muffins instead of bread?
Absolutely! You can pour the batter into a muffin tin and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
In Closing
Nutella Swirled Banana Bread is a delightful addition to any kitchen repertoire, merging the comforting flavors of banana bread with the irresistible allure of Nutella. It’s a recipe that brings smiles to faces and warmth to hearts, making it perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, grab your mixing bowls, and get ready to whip up a loaf that is sure to become a family favorite. Happy baking!
Nutella Swirled Banana Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your loaf pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
- In a large mixing bowl, use a whisk or an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Crack in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, fold in the mashed ripe bananas until fully incorporated.
- Add the plain yogurt (or sour cream) and vanilla extract to the banana mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a rubber spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
- Spoon half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Then, dollop half of the Nutella on top. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl it into the batter. Repeat this process with the remaining batter and Nutella.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
- Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy your delicious Nutella Swirled Banana Bread!
Notes
- Wrap cooled banana bread tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Store leftovers at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
