Deliciously Moist Banana Loaf Recipe From Mary Berry: A Step-By-Step Guide

The beloved banana loaf, celebrated for its moist texture and rich flavors, is a comforting treat that can brighten any day. Mary Berry, a stalwart in British baking, has shared her classic recipe for deliciously moist banana loaf. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process to achieve that perfect loaf, providing essential tips and insights along the way.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Deliciously%20Moist%20Banana%20Loaf%20Recipe%20From%20Mary%20Berry" alt="Deliciously Moist Banana Loaf Recipe" /> </div>

Ingredients You Will Need 🥯

Before we dive into the baking process, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 3 ripe bananas (the riper, the better! 🍌)
• 75g (3 oz) unsalted butter (softened)
• 175g (6 oz) caster sugar
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 225g (8 oz) self-raising flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: 100g (3.5 oz) chopped nuts or chocolate chips (for added flavor)

Measurement Table

<table> <tr> <th>Ingredient</th> <th>Quantity</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Ripe bananas</td> <td>3</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Unsalted butter</td> <td>75g (3 oz)</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Caster sugar</td> <td>175g (6 oz)</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Large eggs</td> <td>2 (beaten)</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Self-raising flour</td> <td>225g (8 oz)</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Baking powder</td> <td>1 teaspoon</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Salt</td> <td>Pinch</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)</td> <td>100g (3.5 oz)</td> </tr> </table>

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=banana%20loaf%20ingredients" alt="Banana Loaf Ingredients" /> </div>

Preparation Steps 🥄

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven 🔥

Start by preheating your oven to 170°C (340°F). This is crucial for an even bake.

Step 2: Prepare Your Loaf Tin 🍞

Grease a 2lb (900g) loaf tin and line it with baking parchment. This will prevent the banana loaf from sticking and will make it easier to remove later.

Step 3: Mash the Bananas 🍌

In a bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. They should be soft and gooey. This step is essential, as mashed bananas are the key ingredient that keeps the loaf moist.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=mashed%20bananas" alt="Mashed Bananas" /> </div>

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar 🍬

In a separate mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, aiding in the rise of your loaf.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Bananas 🥚

Gradually add the beaten eggs to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then, fold in the mashed bananas until well combined.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients 🌾

In another bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This step ensures that your flour is light and helps the loaf to rise evenly.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=sifting%20flour" alt="Sifting Flour" /> </div>

Step 7: Mix it All Together 🍽️

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the loaf dense. If you’re adding nuts or chocolate chips, this is the stage to incorporate them.

Step 8: Transfer to the Loaf Tin 📦

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf tin, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 9: Bake the Loaf 🍰

Place the loaf tin in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it; if the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=baking%20banana%20loaf" alt="Baking Banana Loaf" /> </div>

Step 10: Cool and Serve 🍽️

Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions 🍴

Serve slices of your deliciously moist banana loaf on their own or with a spread of butter. It’s perfect as a snack, breakfast, or dessert!

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=slices%20of%20banana%20loaf" alt="Slices of Banana Loaf" /> </div>

Tips for a Perfect Banana Loaf 🌟

1. Use Overripe Bananas: The riper your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your loaf will be.
2. Don’t Overmix: Gently folding your ingredients together helps keep the loaf light and airy.
3. Cool Completely: Letting the loaf cool completely before slicing allows it to set properly.

"You can always freeze your banana loaf for up to 3 months, wrapped tightly in cling film and foil for freshness."

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=cooling%20banana%20loaf" alt="Cooling Banana Loaf" /> </div>

Enjoy Your Creation! 🎉

Baking Mary Berry’s deliciously moist banana loaf can be a rewarding experience, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas and leaving you with a scrumptious treat. Whether you enjoy it plain, with a spread, or even toasted, this banana loaf recipe is sure to please everyone.

Remember, baking is an art, and with each loaf you make, you will only improve. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious results!