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Cozy Small Batch Browned Butter Banana Bread Loaf

small batch browned butter banana bread - featured image

A small batch banana bread loaf featuring browned butter for a rich, nutty flavor. Perfect for cozy moments and quick baking without leftovers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, browned
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions

  1. Brown the butter: Place 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently as it melts, then begins to foam and turn golden brown. Once browned but not burnt (about 3-5 minutes), remove from heat and pour into a bowl to cool slightly.
  2. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×4 inch small loaf pan with parchment paper.
  3. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon baking soda, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon cinnamon if using.
  4. Prepare wet ingredients: In another bowl, mash 2 ripe bananas until smooth. Add ½ cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 large room temperature egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and the cooled browned butter. Stir gently until combined.
  5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Fold together gently with a rubber spatula until just incorporated. Fold in ¼ cup chopped nuts if desired.
  6. Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top lightly.
  7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Check at 30 minutes if your oven runs hot.
  8. Cool the banana bread in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Watch the butter carefully when browning to avoid burning. Do not overmix the batter to keep the bread tender. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil halfway through baking. For gluten-free, substitute flour with a gluten-free blend. Nuts can be omitted or replaced with seeds for allergies.

Nutrition

Keywords: banana bread, browned butter, small batch, easy banana bread, quick bread, cozy recipe, homemade banana bread