Banana Gingerbread with Vanilla Glaze: A Delightful Holiday Treat
Embrace the warmth of the holidays with this delightful Banana Gingerbread recipe, topped with a luscious vanilla glaze. This easy-to-make treat combines the comforting flavors of gingerbread with the moistness of banana bread, creating a unique and unforgettable dessert. Perfect for a festive gathering, a cozy night in, or a thoughtful homemade gift, this Banana Gingerbread is sure to become a new family favorite.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is a winner for several reasons:
* **Moist and Tender Texture:** The bananas add incredible moisture, preventing the gingerbread from becoming dry. This results in a tender and delightful crumb.
* **Balanced Flavors:** The combination of gingerbread spices (ginger, cinnamon, cloves) with the sweetness of bananas creates a well-rounded flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting.
* **Easy to Make:** This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels.
* **Versatile:** Enjoy it plain, with the vanilla glaze, or even toasted with a dollop of whipped cream. It’s delicious any way you slice it!
* **Festive and Fun:** The gingerbread spices evoke a feeling of holiday cheer, making it the perfect treat for the season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients required for both the gingerbread and the vanilla glaze:
**For the Banana Gingerbread:**
* **Bananas:** 3 ripe bananas, mashed. The riper, the better, as they’ll provide more sweetness and moisture.
* **All-Purpose Flour:** 2 1/2 cups. Provides the structure for the gingerbread.
* **Baking Soda:** 1 teaspoon. Leavens the batter, giving it a light and airy texture.
* **Baking Powder:** 1 teaspoon. Works in tandem with baking soda to provide extra lift.
* **Salt:** 1/2 teaspoon. Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
* **Ground Ginger:** 2 teaspoons. The star spice of gingerbread, providing warmth and a slightly spicy kick.
* **Ground Cinnamon:** 1 teaspoon. Adds warmth and sweetness.
* **Ground Cloves:** 1/2 teaspoon. Provides a deep, rich flavor that complements the ginger and cinnamon.
* **Unsalted Butter:** 1/2 cup (1 stick), softened. Adds richness and moisture.
* **Granulated Sugar:** 1 cup. Sweetens the gingerbread.
* **Brown Sugar:** 1/2 cup, packed. Adds a molasses-like flavor and moisture.
* **Eggs:** 2 large. Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
* **Molasses:** 1/2 cup. A key ingredient in gingerbread, providing its characteristic dark color and flavor.
* **Vanilla Extract:** 1 teaspoon. Enhances the other flavors.
* **Optional:** 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (for added texture and flavor).
**For the Vanilla Glaze:**
* **Powdered Sugar:** 2 cups. The base of the glaze, providing sweetness and a smooth texture.
* **Milk:** 3-4 tablespoons. Used to thin the glaze to the desired consistency.
* **Vanilla Extract:** 1 teaspoon. Enhances the flavor of the glaze.
## Equipment You’ll Need
* **9×13 inch baking pan**
* **Mixing bowls**
* **Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)**
* **Measuring cups and spoons**
* **Spatula**
* **Whisk**
* **Parchment paper (optional, for lining the pan)**
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get baking! Follow these detailed instructions to create your perfect Banana Gingerbread.
**Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven**
* Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
* Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. Alternatively, line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. This is highly recommended for easy cleanup.
**Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients**
* In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Make sure the spices are evenly distributed.
**Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars**
* In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This usually takes 2-3 minutes.
**Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla**
* Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
**Step 5: Incorporate Molasses and Mashed Bananas**
* Add the molasses and mashed bananas to the wet ingredients and mix until well combined. The mixture may appear slightly curdled, but this is normal.
**Step 6: Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients**
* Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough gingerbread. Mix until no large streaks of flour remain.
**Step 7: Add Optional Nuts (if using)**
* If using, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans.
**Step 8: Pour Batter into Prepared Pan**
* Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
**Step 9: Bake the Gingerbread**
* Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Start checking for doneness at 30 minutes.
**Step 10: Cool the Gingerbread**
* Let the gingerbread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. If you used parchment paper, you can lift the gingerbread out using the overhang.
**Step 11: Prepare the Vanilla Glaze**
* While the gingerbread is cooling, prepare the vanilla glaze. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
**Step 12: Glaze the Gingerbread**
* Once the gingerbread is completely cool, drizzle the vanilla glaze evenly over the top. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for a more decorative effect.
**Step 13: Let the Glaze Set**
* Let the glaze set for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving. This will prevent the glaze from running when you cut the gingerbread.
## Tips for the Perfect Banana Gingerbread
* **Use Ripe Bananas:** The riper the bananas, the sweeter and moister the gingerbread will be. Overripe bananas with brown spots are ideal.
* **Don’t Overmix the Batter:** Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough gingerbread. Mix until just combined.
* **Measure Flour Accurately:** Use a kitchen scale for the most accurate measurement, or spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
* **Adjust Spices to Your Preference:** Feel free to adjust the amount of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves to your liking. If you prefer a milder gingerbread, reduce the amount of ginger.
* **Add a Touch of Spice to the Glaze:** For a spicier glaze, add a pinch of ground cinnamon or ginger to the vanilla glaze.
* **Use a Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer:** While you can mix the batter by hand, an electric mixer will make the process much easier and ensure that the butter and sugar are properly creamed.
* **Cool Completely Before Glazing:** Glazing warm gingerbread will cause the glaze to melt and run.
* **Store Properly:** Store the Banana Gingerbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
## Variations and Additions
* **Chocolate Chips:** Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey twist.
* **Cream Cheese Frosting:** Instead of vanilla glaze, top the gingerbread with a cream cheese frosting.
* **Nuts:** Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or other nuts to the batter or sprinkle them on top of the glaze.
* **Dried Fruit:** Add chopped dried cranberries, raisins, or apricots to the batter.
* **Spiced Rum Glaze:** Replace the milk in the vanilla glaze with spiced rum for a boozy kick.
* **Lemon Glaze:** Replace the vanilla extract in the glaze with lemon extract and add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for a bright and citrusy flavor.
* **Maple Glaze:** Replace half of the powdered sugar with maple sugar and use maple syrup instead of milk for a warm and comforting glaze.
## Serving Suggestions
* Enjoy a slice of Banana Gingerbread with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
* Serve it as a dessert at your next holiday gathering.
* Toast a slice and top it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
* Cut it into squares and pack it in lunchboxes.
* Give it as a homemade gift to friends and family.
## Make-Ahead Tips
* The Banana Gingerbread can be baked a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
* The vanilla glaze can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before using and whisk to smooth it out.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.)
* Calories: 300-400 per serving
* Fat: 15-20g
* Saturated Fat: 8-12g
* Cholesterol: 50-70mg
* Sodium: 200-300mg
* Carbohydrates: 40-50g
* Sugar: 25-35g
* Protein: 3-5g
## Conclusion
This Banana Gingerbread with Vanilla Glaze is a delightful and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for the holidays or any time you’re craving a comforting and flavorful dessert. With its moist texture, balanced flavors, and festive spices, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a batch of this unforgettable gingerbread!
Enjoy!