Banana Bread in Canning Jars
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Banana bread holds a special place in many households. It’s that warm, comforting treat that often finds its way onto the table during chilly mornings or lazy afternoons. I remember the first time my grandmother made it; the aroma of ripe bananas and cinnamon wafting through the air was irresistible. Now, imagine taking that nostalgic recipe and pouring it into charming canning jars. That’s what makes this banana bread recipe so special—it’s portable, portioned, and perfect for sharing.
Why you’ll love this dish
Canning jar banana bread is not just a delightful twist on a classic; it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a homemade gift or a sweet treat for family gatherings, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. The jars make storage super easy, allowing you to enjoy fresh banana bread whenever the craving strikes. Plus, kids absolutely love the fun packaging! Perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick dessert after dinner, this dish meets the needs of busy lives while still delivering on deliciousness.
"I made this for a friend’s birthday, and it was a hit! The individual jars made it so easy to share, and everyone loved the warm flavors of banana and spices. Plus, it looked so cute!"
Preparing Banana Bread in Canning Jars
This recipe is a breeze to follow and includes simple steps that yield delightful results. Here’s a quick overview: We’ll start by preheating the oven and getting our jars ready. Then, we will mix our wet and dry ingredients in separate bowls before combining them. Finally, it’s all about pouring the batter into jars and baking until golden brown! Trust me, it’s as easy as it sounds.
What you’ll need
To whip up this amazing banana bread in canning jars, gather the following ingredients:
- 2/3 cup butter
- 2 2/3 cups white sugar
- 4 eggs
- 2 cups mashed banana (about 4-5 ripe bananas)
- 2/3 cup water
- 3 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground cloves (optional)
- 2/3 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 12 cans (250 ml) canning jars
Remember, you can use other nuts or even chocolate chips if you want to switch it up a bit!
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Grease a dozen 250 ml canning jars to ensure easy removal after baking.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- In another bowl, whisk the mashed bananas, eggs, and water until everything is well combined.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and optional ground cloves. Then mix this dry combination into the banana mixture.
- Gently fold in the chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
- Using a canning funnel, carefully pour the batter into the greased jars, filling them halfway.
- Bake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, add the lids to the jars while they’re still hot and listen for the comforting ping sound that signals a proper seal.
Best ways to enjoy it
Banana bread in canning jars is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving ideas. Enjoy them warm right out of the oven, or let them cool and serve them as a delightful addition to a coffee break. Pair with whipped cream or a dollop of flavored cream cheese for a delicious twist. You can even consider adding a side of fresh fruit salad for a wholesome breakfast option.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your delicious banana bread fresh, store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place or the refrigerator if you want to extend the shelf life. They can typically last about a week. If you want to save some for later, they freeze beautifully! Just ensure they’re sealed tightly and stored upright. When it’s time to enjoy your stored banana bread, simply reheat in the oven or microwave.
Helpful cooking tips
- Always use overripe bananas; they add more sweetness and flavor.
- If you don’t have canning jars, you can use ramekins or muffin pans—just adjust the baking time accordingly.
- Make sure not to fill the jars more than halfway, as the bread will expand while baking.
Creative twists
Feel free to customize your banana bread! You can easily swap out the nuts for chocolate chips or dried fruit like cranberries. Try adding a splash of vanilla extract for an extra flavor punch or mix in some shredded coconut for a tropical twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle some sea salt on top of the jars before baking for a sweet-salty contrast.
Common questions
How long does the banana bread last once baked?
In unopened sealed jars, it’s best consumed within a week. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks for optimal freshness.Can I substitute the flour?
Absolutely! You can use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend, but keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly.What can I use instead of butter?
Coconut oil or applesauce can serve as great alternatives, especially if you aim for a lighter version.
Now you are all set to impress your friends and family with a charming and delicious jar of banana bread! Get baking, and enjoy every bite!
Canning Jar Banana Bread
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Grease a dozen 250 ml canning jars to ensure easy removal after baking.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- In another bowl, whisk the mashed bananas, eggs, and water until well combined.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and optional ground cloves. Mix this dry combination into the banana mixture.
- Gently fold in the chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
- Using a canning funnel, carefully pour the batter into the greased jars, filling them halfway.
- Bake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, add the lids to the jars while they are still hot and listen for the ping sound signaling a proper seal.
