Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread is the perfect combination of moist, fluffy, and flavorful with a delicious hint of sweetness from ripe bananas. If you’re looking for a wholesome and comforting treat that’s incredibly easy to bake, his recipe guarantees a satisfying result every time.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread

Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread is a classic and beloved recipe known for its rich, buttery texture and irresistible taste. Made with simple ingredients like ripe bananas, flour, sugar, and eggs, this banana bread stands out for its moist crumb and lightly caramelized crust. The recipe is designed to be versatile, allowing for optional additions like nuts, chocolate chips, or spices, but even in its basic form, it’s both easy to make and utterly delicious.

Whether you’re using overripe bananas that need to be used up or just craving a cozy baked good, this banana bread delivers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a go-to recipe for bakers of all skill levels.

Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas: The riper, the better. Overripe bananas add sweetness and moisture.
• 225g self-raising flour: This ensures a light and fluffy texture.
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder: Helps the bread rise and become airy.
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and a subtle spice.
• 125g unsalted butter: Gives the bread a rich, buttery flavor.
• 200g caster sugar: For sweetness and a slight caramelized edge.
• 2 large eggs: Binding the ingredients and adding structure.
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor and sweetness.
• A pinch of sea salt: Balances out the sweetness.

You can also add optional mix-ins like chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans), chocolate chips, or even dried fruits like raisins, depending on your preference.

Equipment Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread, you’ll need the following basic kitchen equipment:

• A large mixing bowl: For combining the wet and dry ingredients.
• A hand whisk or electric mixer: To beat the sugar and butter, and mix in the eggs and bananas.
• A wooden spoon or spatula: To fold the flour into the wet ingredients.
• A 2lb loaf tin: A standard-sized loaf tin for baking the banana bread. Be sure to grease or line it with parchment paper.
• A baking tray: For placing the loaf tin in the oven.
• A cooling rack: To cool the banana bread once baked.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread?

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious banana bread:

1. Preheat your oven: Set the oven to 170°C (150°C fan) or 340°F. Grease and line your 2lb loaf tin with parchment paper.
2. Mash the bananas: In a large bowl, peel the ripe bananas and mash them with a fork until smooth, leaving a few small chunks if desired.
3. Cream the butter and sugar: In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar together using a whisk or electric mixer until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs and vanilla: Crack the eggs into the butter-sugar mixture, add the vanilla extract, and mix well.
5. Combine the dry ingredients: Sift together the self-raising flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt in a separate bowl.
6. Mix the wet and dry ingredients: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture, being careful not to over-mix.
7. Add extras: If you’re adding any mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, now is the time to fold them into the batter.
8. Transfer to the tin: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and smooth the top.
9. Bake: Place the loaf tin in the oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Cool: Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and allow it to cool for 10 minutes in the tin. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Expert Tips

• Use very ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the more flavorful and moist your banana bread will be. Brown, speckled bananas are ideal.
• Don’t over-mix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet, mix until just combined. Over-mixing can result in a dense, heavy bread.
• Try different add-ins: For extra flavor and texture, consider adding a handful of chopped walnuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruit like raisins or cranberries.
• Check for doneness: If the top of the bread starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil and continue baking. Always check with a skewer in the center to make sure it’s fully baked.
• Storage: Banana bread keeps well at room temperature for about 2-3 days in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months-just slice it first for easy individual servings.

Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread is the ideal recipe for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. It’s simple, quick, and consistently produces a moist, tender loaf with the perfect balance of sweetness.

Whether enjoyed as a snack, breakfast, or dessert, this banana bread will always leave you craving more. Plus, with the option to add your favorite extras like nuts or chocolate, the possibilities are endless. If you’ve got ripe bananas on hand, this recipe is a must-try!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread

Banana bread is a deliciously versatile treat, and Jamie Oliver’s recipe is a wonderful foundation for a variety of delightful variations. Whether you’re looking to add extra flavor, incorporate healthy twists, or explore new textures, there are countless ways to elevate your banana bread game. Here are a few easy recipe modifications you can try:

1. Nutty Banana Bread

   Add chopped walnuts, almonds, or pecans to the batter for added crunch and flavor. Nuts not only complement the natural sweetness of the bananas but also provide a satisfying texture contrast. You can toast the nuts lightly before adding them for a deeper flavor profile.

2. Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

   For all the chocolate lovers, mixing in some dark or milk chocolate chips will take your banana bread to the next level. The melty pockets of chocolate offer a sweet, gooey experience that pairs perfectly with the softness of the bread. Try adding a sprinkle of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a more intense chocolate flavor.

3. Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

   Cinnamon adds a comforting warmth to banana bread, so why not take it up a notch with a cinnamon swirl?

   Simply mix together cinnamon and sugar, and as you pour the batter into the pan, layer the cinnamon-sugar mixture in between. When the bread bakes, it’ll have a beautiful ribbon of spiced sweetness running through it.

4. Vegan Banana Bread

   If you’re looking for a plant-based option, substituting eggs with flax seeds or chia seeds and using a dairy-free milk (such as almond milk or oat milk) creates a perfectly delicious vegan banana bread. You can also replace the butter with coconut oil or any vegetable oil to keep it dairy-free.

5. Gluten-Free Banana Bread

   For those with dietary restrictions, you can make Jamie’s banana bread gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You may also need to add a binder like xanthan gum or psyllium husk to maintain the bread’s texture and moisture. The ripe bananas provide plenty of natural sweetness, so you can still enjoy the bread without sacrificing flavor.

6. Spiced Banana Bread

   Add a blend of your favorite spices like ginger, nutmeg, or allspice to infuse your banana bread with a warming, aromatic flavor. A teaspoon of ground ginger and a pinch of nutmeg is a great starting point for a comforting spiced bread.

7. Berry Banana Bread

   If you want to brighten up the flavor and texture, consider adding fresh or frozen berries like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries. The tartness of the berries balances the sweetness of the bananas, creating a delightful contrast. Just make sure to toss the berries in a bit of flour before folding them into the batter to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.

8. Coconut Banana Bread

   For a tropical twist, incorporate shredded coconut into the batter. You can also top the loaf with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for extra crunch. This addition imparts a subtle sweetness and a bit of chewiness that enhances the banana flavor.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Banana bread is a treat that often doesn’t last long in the kitchen, but when it does, it’s essential to store it properly to maintain its freshness. Here are some expert tips on storing your leftover banana bread to enjoy it for several days:

1. Room Temperature Storage

   If you plan to consume the banana bread within a few days, storing it at room temperature is perfectly fine. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh.

   You can also place it in a resealable plastic bag. Just make sure it’s kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to avoid it getting too dry or too soft.

2. Refrigeration

   For longer shelf life, you can store banana bread in the refrigerator. While refrigeration may slightly alter the texture, it helps extend the freshness for up to a week. To prevent the bread from drying out, wrap it well in plastic or store it in an airtight container before placing it in the fridge.

3. Freezing for Longer Storage

   If you have more banana bread than you can eat within a few days, freezing is an excellent option. Slice the bread into individual pieces before freezing so you can thaw only what you need.

   Wrap each slice in plastic wrap or foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Banana bread can be frozen for up to three months. To thaw, leave it at room temperature for a few hours or warm it up in the microwave for a few seconds.

4. Reviving Stale Banana Bread

   If your banana bread becomes a little dry, you can quickly revive it by gently warming it in the oven. Wrap the bread in foil and heat it at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes. The moisture inside the bread will be reabsorbed, and the loaf will become soft and fluffy again.

What Goes Well With Banana Bread?

Banana bread is a versatile and satisfying treat that pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some ideas for pairing your banana bread for an extra burst of flavor and texture:

1. Butter or Nut Butters

   A classic pairing is a simple spread of butter. The rich, creamy texture complements the moistness of the banana bread perfectly.

   For something more adventurous, try spreading peanut butter, almond butter, or hazelnut spread on top. These nutty spreads bring an added layer of flavor and can make your banana bread feel more indulgent.

2. Jam or Fruit Compotes

   Fresh fruit spreads like strawberry jam, blueberry compote, or even marmalade can add a touch of sweetness and fruitiness that enhances the banana bread. A dollop of homemade or store-bought fruit preserves can be just the thing to elevate your snack.

3. Yogurt

   For a lighter option, serve banana bread with a side of Greek yogurt. The tartness of the yogurt balances the sweetness of the bread, and its creamy texture contrasts nicely with the soft crumb of the loaf. You can even mix in some fresh berries or honey for extra sweetness.

4. Ice Cream

   A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream on the side of banana bread makes for a decadent dessert. The cold, creamy ice cream against the warm banana bread creates a satisfying contrast that is sure to please your taste buds.

5. Coffee or Tea

   Banana bread pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The deep, rich flavors of a freshly brewed cup of coffee, or the delicate notes of tea, complement the sweet, comforting banana bread. Opt for a bold black coffee, chai tea, or even a spiced herbal blend to match the warmth and flavors of your banana bread.

6. Whipped Cream or Mascarpone

   For a touch of elegance, add a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a spoonful of mascarpone cheese. The lightness of whipped cream or the rich, tangy mascarpone creates a luxurious contrast to the dense, moist texture of the banana bread.

Conclusion

Banana bread is more than just a simple treat; it’s a deliciously adaptable recipe that offers endless possibilities for experimentation. Whether you want to add nuts, berries, or chocolate, there’s a variation for every flavor preference.

Storing banana bread properly ensures you can enjoy it for days, and when paired with spreads, fruits, or even ice cream, it becomes an even more indulgent experience. Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of coffee or dressing it up with your favorite toppings, banana bread is the perfect comfort food for any occasion.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Used In Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread Recipe?

Jamie Oliver’s banana bread recipe typically includes ripe bananas, self-raising flour, unsalted butter, light brown sugar, free-range eggs, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and optional additions such as chopped walnuts or chocolate chips.

How Ripe Should The Bananas Be For Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread?

The bananas should be very ripe-ideally with dark spots on the skin and a soft texture inside. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the banana bread will be.

Can I Substitute Self-raising Flour With Plain Flour In This Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute self-raising flour with plain (all-purpose) flour by adding 2 teaspoons of baking powder for every cup (120g) of plain flour used.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread Recipe Suitable For Vegetarians?

Yes, Jamie Oliver’s banana bread recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or fish products. However, it does include eggs and dairy.

Can This Banana Bread Be Made Dairy-free?

Yes, you can make it dairy-free by replacing butter with a dairy-free alternative such as margarine or coconut oil, and ensuring any added chocolate is dairy-free.

How Long Does It Take To Bake Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread?

Typically, the banana bread bakes for about 50 to 60 minutes at 180°C (350°F), or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Can I Add Nuts Or Chocolate Chips To The Recipe?

Absolutely. Jamie often encourages adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or dark chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor. These additions should be folded into the batter before baking.

How Should I Store The Banana Bread After Baking?

Once cooled, wrap the banana bread in parchment paper or plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Can I Use This Recipe To Make Banana Muffins Instead?

Yes, the same batter can be used to make muffins. Adjust the baking time to around 20-25 minutes, and check for doneness with a toothpick.

What Is The Best Way To Serve Jamie Oliver’s Banana Bread?

It’s delicious served warm or at room temperature, either plain or with a smear of butter. For an indulgent touch, try topping it with cream cheese or drizzling with honey or maple syrup.