Get your aprons ready and preheat those ovens because today we’re embarking on a baking journey like no other. Our Banana-Fig Walnut Bread recipe is here to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked goodness. This is a recipe you won’t want to miss, so let’s dive right in!
Banana - Fig Walnut Bread
Equipment
- oven
- 1 9 by 5 inch loaf pan
- 1 separate bowl
Ingredients
- 1½ cups whole what pastry flour
- ½ cup all purpose flour
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 egg whites
- ½ cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
- 2 large ripe mashed bananas
- ⅓ cup skim milk* * see note
- ⅓ cup applesauce
- ¾ cup chopped dried figs
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat a 9 by 5 inch loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- Combine flour, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites, sugar, banana, milk mixture, and applesauce until evenly blended. Mix in flour mixture until just moistened. Stir in figs and walnuts.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for one hour. Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes, then remove loaf from pan and cool another 10 - 15 minutes before slicing.
Video
Notes
Cooking Tips
To ensure the best results and make your Banana-Fig Walnut Bread baking experience a breeze, here are some essential tips and tricks:
- Ripeness Matters: Use ripe bananas with a few brown spots on the skin for maximum sweetness and moisture in your bread. They will mash easily and infuse the bread with their natural flavors.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, be gentle and avoid overmixing the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough bread. Stir until the ingredients are just incorporated for a tender crumb.
- Adjust Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep a close eye on your bread as it bakes. Start checking for doneness around the 45-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread, and if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your bread is ready to be taken out of the oven.
- Test for Moisture: If you’re unsure about the moisture level of your bread, you can add a toothpick or skewer into the center. If it comes out with wet batter clinging to it, bake the bread for a few more minutes and retest.
- Let It Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This will help it set and prevent it from crumbling. Once completely cooled, slice and serve to enjoy its full flavors.
Serving Your Banana-Fig Walnut Bread
Here are some delightful serving suggestions and ideas to enhance your Banana-Fig Walnut Bread experience:
- Recommend Sides, Garnishes, or Beverages: Pair a slice of warm Banana-Fig Walnut Bread with a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey. The tanginess of the yogurt beautifully complements the sweetness of the bread. Additionally, a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a warm mug of chai tea makes for a delightful beverage pairing.
- Different Ways to Serve: Get creative with your servings! Toast a slice of the bread and spread a thin layer of cream cheese or almond butter for a delicious breakfast option. You can also turn it into a decadent dessert by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of crushed walnuts on top.
- Brunch Delight: Impress your brunch guests by serving Banana-Fig Walnut Bread as part of a bread basket. Slice it into smaller pieces, and alongside, offer an assortment of jams, spreads, and fresh fruit. It will make for an irresistible addition to your brunch spread.
- Holiday Treat: During the holiday season, serve the bread as a festive treat. Cut it into bite-sized cubes and use them as a base for individual trifle desserts. Layer the bread cubes with whipped cream, caramel sauce, and sliced figs for a stunning and delicious dessert option.
- Gifting Idea: Wrap a loaf of freshly baked Banana-Fig Walnut Bread in parchment paper, tie it with a beautiful ribbon, and present it as a heartfelt homemade gift. It’s a thoughtful gesture that will bring joy to any recipient.
FAQs
Can I freeze the Banana-Fig Walnut Bread?
Yes, you can freeze the bread for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw the bread at room temperature or in the refrigerator before enjoying.
How long does the bread stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the Banana-Fig Walnut Bread will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. However, if you refrigerate it, it can last up to a week. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving for the best taste and texture.
Can I substitute the walnuts with another type of nut?
Absolutely! If you have allergies or prefer a different nut, feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts. The choice of nut will add its unique flavor and texture to the bread.
Can I use dried figs instead of fresh figs?
Yes, you can use dried figs in this recipe. Soak the dried figs in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften them before chopping and incorporating them into the batter. The dried figs will add a slightly more concentrated sweetness to the bread.
How should I store any leftovers?
To store leftovers, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Ensure proper sealing to prevent the bread from drying out.
Indulge in the ultimate Banana-Fig Walnut Bread experience with our expertly crafted recipe. Uncover the tips and tricks to achieve baking perfection, and savor the heavenly flavors of ripe bananas, fragrant figs, and nutty walnuts. Don’t keep this recipe to yourself—share it with others and join our blog community for more culinary inspiration.