Super Easy Caramelized Banana Loaf

Ingredients

• 3 medium, 2 mashed, 1 slicedRipe Bananas
• 1.5 cupAll-Purpose Flour
• 1 teaspoonBaking Soda
• 0.5 teaspoonSalt
• 0.5 cup, softenedUnsalted Butter
• 0.5 cupGranulated Sugar
• 0.5 cup, plus 2 tablespoons for toppingLight Brown Sugar
• 1Large Egg
• 1 teaspoonVanilla Extract
• 2 tablespoonsMilk

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan, or line with parchment paper for easy removal.

   ⏱ 5 min
2. 2

   In the prepared loaf pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter (part of the 1/2 cup total butter, or an extra 2 tbsp if preferred). Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of light brown sugar evenly over the melted butter. Arrange the slices from one ripe banana in a single layer over the sugar mixture at the bottom of the pan.

   ⏱ 3 min
3. 3

   In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

   ⏱ 2 min
4. 4

   In a large bowl, cream together the remaining 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup light brown sugar until light and fluffy.

   ⏱ 3 min
5. 5

   Beat in the large egg until well combined, then stir in the vanilla extract.

   ⏱ 2 min
6. 6

   Add the 2 mashed ripe bananas to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.

   ⏱ 1 min
7. 7

   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed or by hand until just combined. Do not overmix. Stir in the milk.

   ⏱ 3 min
8. 8

   Carefully pour the banana bread batter over the caramelized banana slices in the loaf pan, spreading evenly.

   ⏱ 1 min
9. 9

   Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil.

   ⏱ 55 min
10. 10

    Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a wire rack or serving plate. The caramelized bananas will now be on top. Allow to cool completely before slicing and serving.

    ⏱ 15 min