This Salted Caramel Banana Bread elevates the beloved classic with a rich, buttery glaze that perfectly balances sweet and salty flavors. Moist, tender banana bread infused with cinnamon and topped with a luscious caramel glaze makes this recipe a show-stopping addition to your brunch table or a cozy indulgence for any time of day. It’s the ultimate comfort treat with a gourmet touch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Rich and Moist: Thanks to sour cream and ripe bananas, this bread has an unbeatable tender crumb.
Elevated Flavor: The salted caramel glaze adds a sophisticated twist to the traditional banana bread.
Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples, making it accessible and easy to prepare.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for brunch, gifting, or a comforting treat at home.
Customizable: Add mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for a unique spin.
Key Ingredients:
Bananas: The heart of the recipe. Use very ripe bananas with lots of brown spots for maximum sweetness and flavor.
Brown Sugar: Adds a caramel-like depth to both the bread and the glaze.
Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and ensures a tender crumb. Room temperature butter is key for even mixing.
Sour Cream: Keeps the bread moist and soft while adding a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
Cinnamon: Enhances the warm, cozy flavor of the banana bread.
Salted Caramel Glaze: Made with butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and salt, this glaze transforms the bread into a show-stopping treat.
Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
2 cups of flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat together:
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup softened butter
Add 2 eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients
Mix in:
1/2 cup sour cream
3 mashed bananas
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Beat until fully combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
Stir gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
6. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Make the Glaze
While the bread cools, prepare the salted caramel glaze:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine:
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons butter
Bring to a boil and cook for about 1 minute until the sugar dissolves.
Stir in 2 tablespoons heavy cream and remove from heat.
Add 1/4 cup powdered sugar and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth.
8. Glaze the Bread
Allow the glaze to cool slightly (about 5 minutes).
Pour the glaze over the cooled banana bread, letting it drizzle down the sides.
9. Serve
Slice and enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate treat!
Serving Suggestions:
For Breakfast: Pair a slice with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit for a balanced start to your day.
As a Dessert: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
For Gifting: Wrap in parchment paper, tie with twine, and gift to friends or family—perfect for holidays or special occasions.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Room Temperature: Wrap the bread in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: Store glazed banana bread in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
Freezing: Freeze unglazed banana bread for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and add the glaze before serving.
Variations to Try:
Chocolate Banana Bread: Add ½ cup of dark chocolate chips to the batter for a rich, indulgent twist.
Nutty Delight: Stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
Spiced Banana Bread: Enhance the flavor with a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom.
Tropical Twist: Fold in ½ cup of shredded coconut for a tropical flair.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free treat.
Conclusion:
This Salted Caramel Banana Bread is proof that a little extra effort can transform a classic recipe into something truly decadent. The salted caramel glaze perfectly complements the moist, flavorful bread, making it a treat that’s both comforting and indulgent. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again!
Salted Caramel Banana Bread: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Treat
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar for banana bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter room temperature
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 4 ripe bananas mashed
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar for glaze
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter for glaze
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat together 3/4 cup brown sugar and 1/2 cup softened butter. Add 2 eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in 1/2 cup sour cream, 4 mashed bananas, and 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Beat until fully combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/4 cup brown sugar and 2 tablespoons butter. Bring to a boil and cook for about 1 minute until the sugar dissolves. Stir in 2 tablespoons heavy cream and remove from heat. Add 1/3 cup powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Whisk until smooth.
- Allow the glaze to cool slightly (about 5 minutes). Pour the glaze over the cooled banana bread, letting it drizzle down the sides.
- Slice and enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate treat!