Salted Caramel Banana Bread

Salted Caramel Banana Bread is a moist and flavorful treat that’s enriched with the sweet and salty combination of caramel and a hint of sea salt. It’s not overly dense or overly sweet either. I think it’s a perfect anytime treat, and if you’re not a fan of caramel, feel free to omit it.

It will still be undeniably delicious! If you’re looking for a moist and flavorful bread that’s not overly sweet, you’ve come to the right place. When you make a classic banana bread and pair it with a rich, salted caramel swirl, you get the perfect loaf. The addition of salted caramel just sends it over the top. I’ve really been in the mood for cozy, comforting treats, and this delightful bread reminds me of warm, relaxing afternoons. Not a fan of caramel? Don’t worry, it’s still delicious without it.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

• Medium mixing bowl
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• 9×5 inch loaf pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Saucepan

Ingredients:

For the Banana Bread:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3-4 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/2 cups)

For the Salted Caramel:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Directions:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Make the Salted Caramel:
   • In a medium saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts into a thick amber-colored liquid. Be careful not to burn it.
   • Add the butter and stir until melted and combined.
   • Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. Allow the mixture to boil for 1 minute.
   • Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt. Let it cool slightly while you prepare the banana bread batter.
3. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
4. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk the melted butter and brown sugar together until combined.
   • Add the eggs, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
   • Stir in the mashed bananas.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Layer the Batter and Caramel:
   • Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Drizzle half of the salted caramel over the batter. Swirl gently with a knife.
   • Pour the remaining batter on top and drizzle with the remaining caramel. Swirl again gently.
7. Bake:
   • Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, cover with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
8. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Enjoy this delectable Salted Caramel Banana Bread, perfect for any occasion and sure to be a hit with everyone!