Banana bread is one of those timeless classics that everyone loves. It’s the perfect way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter, transforming them into something truly special. But what if we took that beloved banana bread and made it even better? Enter the Easy Salted Caramel Banana Bread—a sweet and salty twist on the classic that you won’t be able to resist.
This banana bread is everything you love about the original—moist, flavorful, and comforting—but with a decadent swirl of salted caramel that takes it to the next level. The contrast of sweet bananas with the rich, buttery caramel and a hint of salt is simply irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying it as a breakfast treat or a dessert, this banana bread is sure to be a hit.
Recipe Summary in Todd Wilbur’s Style
This Easy Salted Caramel Banana Bread combines the moist, sweet goodness of classic banana bread with the rich, buttery flavor of salted caramel. It’s an indulgent treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Story
The first time I made this banana bread, it was one of those spontaneous kitchen experiments that just clicked. I had some extra bananas that needed to be used, and a jar of salted caramel that was calling my name. I thought, why not put them together? The result was beyond my expectations—each slice was a perfect balance of sweetness with just a touch of saltiness, and it became an instant favorite in my house. Now, whenever I have overripe bananas, this is the recipe I turn to. It’s become a family tradition, and I hope it becomes one in your home too.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Salted Caramel Banana Bread
Selling Points
- Moist and Flavorful: The bananas make this bread incredibly moist, while the caramel adds a deep, rich flavor.
- Sweet and Salty Perfection: The combination of sweet bananas and salted caramel is a match made in heaven.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a breeze to whip up.
How to Make Easy Salted Caramel Banana Bread
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Swirl in the Salted Caramel: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Drizzle half of the salted caramel sauce over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top, then drizzle the remaining caramel sauce. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the caramel into the batter gently.
- Bake the Banana Bread: Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Drizzle with extra salted caramel sauce and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
Tips For Easy Salted Caramel Banana Bread
- Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
- Homemade Caramel: If you have time, making your own salted caramel sauce adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Check for Doneness: Because of the caramel, the bread may take slightly longer to bake. Keep an eye on it and test with a toothpick.
Substitutions and Variations
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this bread gluten-free.
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a bit of crunch.
- Chocolate Twist: Stir in some chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.
Make a Healthier Version
- Lower Sugar: Reduce the amount of sugar by using a sugar substitute or cutting back on the brown sugar.
- Lighten It Up: Substitute some or all of the butter with applesauce for a lighter version.
Closing in Todd Wilbur’s Style
Get ready to indulge in the ultimate banana bread experience with this Easy Salted Caramel Banana Bread. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and salty, rich and moist, and so easy to make. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or just as a snack, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy every decadent slice!
Frequently Asked Questions For Easy Salted Caramel Banana Bread
- Can I use a different type of caramel? Yes, any caramel sauce will work, but salted caramel adds that perfect balance of sweet and salty.
- How do I store this banana bread? Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Can I freeze this banana bread? Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Can I make this bread without eggs? You can substitute eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture (1 tbsp ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg).
- What if I don’t have ripe bananas? You can ripen bananas quickly by baking them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Can I add nuts to the recipe? Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would be a great addition.
- How can I make this bread more moist? Ensure your bananas are very ripe and don’t overmix the batter to keep the bread moist.
- Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes, use a vegan butter substitute, flax or chia eggs, and ensure the caramel sauce is dairy-free.
- Can I use another type of sugar? Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or another granulated sweetener of your choice.
- Can I make muffins instead of a loaf? Yes, simply divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Easy Salted Caramel Banana Bread
Course: Cake, Occasions, Weight watchers4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalIngredients
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
3/4 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
Extra salted caramel for drizzling (optional)
Flaky sea salt for topping (optional)
Directions
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Swirl in the Salted Caramel: Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Drizzle half of the salted caramel sauce over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top, then drizzle the remaining caramel sauce. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the caramel into the batter gently.
- Bake the Banana Bread: Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Drizzle with extra salted caramel sauce and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.