Mary Berry Banana Fruit Bread Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a deliciously moist and flavorful treat, Mary Berry’s banana fruit bread recipe is a must-try!

Packed with ripe bananas, mixed fruits, and just the right amount of sweetness, this recipe brings together the best of both worlds-comforting banana bread with a fruity twist. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, Mary Berry’s simple yet scrumptious approach makes it easy to create a perfect loaf every time. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. What’s not to love?

Mary Berry Banana Fruit Bread Recipe

Ingredients Needed For Mary Berry’s Banana Fruit Bread

Mary Berry’s Banana Fruit Bread is a deliciously moist and flavorful treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the comforting texture of a well-made loaf. To achieve the perfect balance of taste and texture, you will need a few simple yet essential ingredients. Here’s a rundown of what you’ll need:

1. Ripe Bananas (3-4 bananas) – The star of the show!

   Overripe bananas are perfect for this recipe because their sweetness intensifies as they ripen. The bananas add moisture to the bread, making it soft and tender while imparting a subtle fruity flavor. Make sure they’re quite soft and speckled with brown spots for maximum flavor.

2. Self-Raising Flour (250g) – This type of flour is crucial because it contains a leavening agent that helps the bread rise without needing additional baking powder or yeast. The self-raising flour provides the perfect texture, making the bread light and airy while still dense enough to support the fruitiness of the banana.

3. Caster Sugar (100g) – A fine-grain sugar that dissolves quickly, giving the banana bread just the right amount of sweetness. If you prefer a less sweet version, you can adjust the sugar to your liking, but the combination of sugar with the natural sweetness of the bananas gives the bread an irresistible flavor.

4. Butter (100g) – Butter adds richness and flavor to the banana bread. It helps to create a soft and tender crumb, while the fat in the butter ensures that the bread stays moist for a longer time. You can substitute with margarine if needed, though butter provides a deeper, more rounded taste.

5. Egg (1 large) – The egg acts as a binder, helping to bring together the dry and wet ingredients. It also contributes to the bread’s structure, giving it a slight fluffiness that balances out the heavier, denser ingredients like the bananas and flour.

6. Milk (2 tablespoons) – Milk adds a little moisture to the batter, ensuring that the bread doesn’t turn out too dense. It also contributes to the flavor, adding creaminess that complements the bananas.

7. Mixed Dried Fruit (150g) – This ingredient is optional but highly recommended for added texture and flavor. A mix of raisins, sultanas, currants, or chopped dried apricots provides bursts of sweetness throughout the bread. The dried fruit also adds a chewy element, creating a contrast to the soft, spongy texture of the bread.

8. Baking Powder (1 tsp) – While self-raising flour already contains leavening agents, the additional baking powder ensures the bread rises well and achieves a light, fluffy texture, especially given the weight of the bananas and dried fruit.

9. Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp) – Cinnamon brings a lovely warmth to the banana bread, enhancing the natural flavors of the fruit and creating a comforting aroma as it bakes. This is another optional ingredient, but highly recommended if you love the cozy, spicy depth that cinnamon provides.

Equipment Needed For Mary Berry’s Banana Fruit Bread

When it comes to making Mary Berry’s Banana Fruit Bread, you don’t need a lot of specialized equipment. However, there are a few basic tools that will make your life easier in the kitchen and ensure your bread turns out perfectly.

1. Mixing Bowl – You’ll need a large mixing bowl to combine all the ingredients. It’s important that the bowl is spacious enough to hold the batter comfortably, as it will expand slightly as you mix everything together.

2. Electric Mixer or Whisk – An electric hand mixer or stand mixer makes blending the ingredients easier, particularly when it comes to creaming the butter and sugar together. However, if you don’t have an electric mixer, a regular whisk or wooden spoon will work just as well.

3. Spatula or Spoon – A spatula will be useful for scraping down the sides of your mixing bowl and folding in the flour and fruit. If you’re using dried fruit, a spoon can help evenly distribute it through the batter.

4. Loaf Tin (Approximately 20 cm x 12 cm) – A standard loaf tin is essential for this recipe. Mary Berry recommends a tin size around 20 cm (8 inches) long and 12 cm (5 inches) wide. This ensures that the bread bakes evenly, creating the perfect shape and texture.

5. Baking Paper or Non-stick Spray – To prevent the banana bread from sticking to the tin, line your loaf tin with baking parchment or use a non-stick spray. This is particularly helpful for ensuring an easy release once the bread has cooled.

6. Cooling Rack – After baking, it’s essential to allow the banana fruit bread to cool completely before slicing. A cooling rack allows air to circulate around the loaf, preventing it from becoming soggy on the bottom.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Banana Fruit Bread

Making Mary Berry’s Banana Fruit Bread is straightforward and perfect for beginner bakers. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you along the way:

Step 1: Preheat The Oven And Prepare The Tin

Begin by preheating your oven to 160°C (fan oven) or 180°C (conventional oven), ensuring that it reaches the right temperature for baking. While the oven is warming up, grease and line your loaf tin with baking paper or lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray. This will make removing the bread from the tin much easier once it’s baked.

Step 2: Mash The Bananas

Peel the ripe bananas and place them into a large bowl. Use a fork to mash the bananas until they’re smooth with only a few small lumps remaining. The riper the bananas, the easier this will be, and the more flavor they’ll add to the bread.

Step 3: Cream The Butter And Sugar

In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and caster sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. An electric mixer makes this step much quicker, but a hand whisk or spoon can also do the job. This process is key to incorporating air into the mixture, ensuring the bread has a soft texture.

Step 4: Add The Egg, Milk, And Banana

To the creamed butter and sugar, add the egg, milk, and mashed bananas. Mix these together gently until fully combined. If you’re using an electric mixer, be sure to mix on a low speed to prevent splattering.

Step 5: Add The Dry Ingredients

Next, sift the self-raising flour, baking powder, and ground cinnamon (if using) into the wet mixture. Stir gently with a spatula or spoon until the flour is just incorporated, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can result in a dense loaf, so this step should be done with care.

Step 6: Fold In The Dried Fruit

Once the batter is ready, fold in the dried fruit of your choice (raisins, sultanas, etc.), ensuring that it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Again, do this gently so as not to deflate the batter.

Step 7: Pour Into The Tin And Bake

Transfer the mixture into your prepared loaf tin, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. Every oven is different, so it’s always a good idea to start checking around 50 minutes.

Step 8: Cool And Serve

Once the banana fruit bread is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely. When the bread has cooled sufficiently, slice it into thick, generous pieces and serve.

Expert Tips For Perfect Banana Fruit Bread

1. Use Overripe Bananas: The best banana bread is made with bananas that are heavily speckled or even completely brown. These bananas are sweeter and mushier, which results in a moist, flavorful loaf.

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing the ingredients too vigorously can cause the bread to be tough. Stir just enough to combine the ingredients and create a smooth batter.

3. Add Nuts or Chocolate: If you love texture and flavor, consider adding some chopped walnuts, pecans, or even dark chocolate chips to the batter for added crunch and richness.

4. Monitor Baking Time: Depending on your oven, the banana bread might need more or less time to bake. Start checking for doneness around the 50-minute mark by inserting a skewer or toothpick into the center-if it comes out clean, your bread is done.

5. Cool Completely Before Slicing: Although tempting, wait for the bread to cool completely before cutting into it. This will prevent it from being too soft and ensure perfect slices.

Mary Berry’s Banana Fruit Bread is a heartwarming, easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a mid-afternoon snack, a breakfast option, or a lovely addition to a tea-time spread. By following the simple steps outlined and utilizing fresh, high-quality ingredients, you can create a loaf that’s not only delicious but also wonderfully moist and flavorful. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress with its simple elegance and delightful taste.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Banana Fruit Bread

Mary Berry’s banana fruit bread is already a delightful treat, with its moist texture and perfect balance of sweetness from ripe bananas and fruits. However, there are several ways to give this beloved recipe a twist, allowing you to explore different flavor combinations and make the bread even more exciting. Here are a few easy variations to consider:

1. Nutty Banana Fruit Bread

   Adding nuts to your banana bread is a wonderful way to introduce some crunch and earthy flavors. Walnuts, pecans, or almonds work particularly well in this recipe.

   Simply fold in about a half cup of chopped nuts into the batter. You can toast them lightly before adding for an extra depth of flavor. Not only will they provide texture, but they also contribute to the overall richness of the bread.

2. Spiced Banana Fruit Bread

   For a warming, cozy touch, you can enhance the banana bread with some aromatic spices. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger make excellent additions.

   A teaspoon of ground cinnamon, a pinch of nutmeg, and a touch of ground ginger will infuse the bread with comforting spice. This variation is especially ideal during the colder months or around the holidays.

3. Tropical Twist

   Want to make your banana fruit bread feel like a tropical vacation?

   Add some shredded coconut and chopped dried pineapple or mango. These ingredients will give the bread a unique sweetness and a hint of the tropics. The coconut adds moisture, and the fruit brings a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the banana, creating a well-rounded and exotic flavor profile.

4. Chocolate Chip Banana Fruit Bread

   Who can resist the combination of chocolate and bananas?

   Add some semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips into the batter to create a rich and indulgent treat. The chocolate melts as the bread bakes, creating pockets of gooey goodness throughout the loaf. You can even sprinkle a few chocolate chips on top before baking to make it even more visually appealing.

5. Berry Banana Fruit Bread

   If you want to make the bread even fruitier, try adding some fresh or frozen berries. Blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries are particularly delicious when mixed into banana bread.

   The berries will burst as the bread bakes, leaving behind sweet, juicy pockets. Just be careful not to overmix, as berries can easily get squashed and turn the batter a bit purple!.

6. Vegan Banana Fruit Bread

   For a vegan-friendly version, you can easily swap out the eggs and butter in the recipe. Use a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) as an egg replacement, and substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine. This version retains all the flavor of the original but caters to those with dietary preferences or restrictions.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Banana fruit bread tends to be so delicious that you might not have any leftovers, but just in case, it’s good to know the best practices for storing it to keep it fresh and moist. Here’s how you can store your banana bread properly:

1. Room Temperature Storage

   If you plan to consume the banana fruit bread within 2 to 3 days, simply store it at room temperature. Place the bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil.

   This will prevent the bread from drying out and protect it from dust or other contaminants. Keep the container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

2. Refrigeration for Longer Freshness

   If you want to extend the life of your banana bread, storing it in the fridge is a good option. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container.

   Refrigeration can help prevent mold growth and extend the shelf life to about a week. However, refrigeration can sometimes make the bread a little firmer, so you might want to warm up slices before enjoying them.

3. Freezing for Extended Storage

   For even longer storage, freezing banana fruit bread is the best method. To freeze, let the bread cool completely, then slice it into individual servings.

   Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place the wrapped slices in a freezer bag. Alternatively, you can freeze the whole loaf.

   When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the slices at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up. This method can keep your banana bread fresh for up to 3 months.

What Goes Well With Banana Fruit Bread

Banana fruit bread is a versatile treat that pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Whether you’re looking to enhance the flavor or balance the sweetness, here are some great options that go hand in hand with this delightful loaf:

1. Butter and Jam

   A simple spread of butter can elevate banana bread to new heights, adding richness and a creamy texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing the bread with your favorite jam or fruit preserve. Strawberry, apricot, or raspberry jams work beautifully with the sweet banana and fruit flavors, adding an extra layer of sweetness and fruitiness.

2. Nut Butters

   Peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter are fantastic choices to pair with banana fruit bread. The savory richness of the nut butter complements the sweetness of the banana and adds a protein-packed boost. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter on a slice of banana bread for a satisfying snack or breakfast.

3. Cream Cheese

   For a bit of tang to balance out the sweetness, spread a little cream cheese on your banana bread. You can even mix in some honey or a pinch of cinnamon to the cream cheese for added flavor. This combination is perfect for those who enjoy a sweet-and-savory contrast.

4. Whipped Cream or Ice Cream

   If you’re serving banana fruit bread as a dessert, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream will make it extra indulgent. The cold, creamy texture of the ice cream pairs wonderfully with the warmth of the banana bread, creating a delightful contrast that feels like a treat from a bakery.

5. Tea or Coffee

   Banana fruit bread is fantastic with a hot beverage. A cup of Earl Grey, chamomile tea, or a classic English breakfast tea can complement the bread’s richness without overpowering it. If you’re more of a coffee person, a smooth cup of freshly brewed coffee or a cappuccino provides a perfect balance of warmth and bitterness to contrast with the bread’s sweetness.

6. Fresh Fruit

   Fresh fruits like sliced strawberries, oranges, or even apple slices can provide a refreshing, juicy contrast to the dense, moist bread. The tartness of the fruit helps cut through the sweetness of the banana bread and adds a vibrant touch to your plate.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s banana fruit bread is already a flavorful and satisfying treat that can stand alone, but with a few easy variations, you can tailor the recipe to suit your mood or occasion. Whether you add nuts, spices, tropical fruit, or chocolate, each variation brings a new layer of flavor and texture to this classic loaf.

When it comes to storing leftovers, using airtight containers or freezing slices ensures that your banana bread stays fresh for longer, ready to be enjoyed anytime. Pair it with a variety of delicious accompaniments like nut butter, fresh fruit, or a warm cup of tea, and you’ll find that banana fruit bread is the perfect snack or dessert for any time of the day. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy this delicious treat in so many different ways!.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Required For Mary Berry’s Banana Fruit Bread?

Mary Berry’s banana fruit bread requires ripe bananas, mixed dried fruit (such as raisins and sultanas), self-raising flour, butter, sugar, eggs, and a pinch of salt. Some versions also include a dash of milk to help with consistency.

Can I Use Frozen Bananas For Mary Berry’s Banana Fruit Bread?

Yes, frozen bananas work well in Mary Berry’s banana fruit bread recipe. Simply thaw them before using, and mash them as you would with fresh bananas.

What Type Of Flour Is Needed For This Recipe?

For Mary Berry’s banana fruit bread, self-raising flour is recommended. This flour already contains baking powder, which helps the bread rise. If you only have plain flour, you can add a teaspoon of baking powder to each 150g of plain flour.

Can I Substitute The Dried Fruit In Mary Berry’s Banana Fruit Bread Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the dried fruit with other options like chopped dried apricots, dates, or cranberries. You can even use a mix of your favorite dried fruits depending on your taste.

How Ripe Should The Bananas Be For Mary Berry’s Banana Fruit Bread?

The bananas should be overripe, with lots of brown spots. Overripe bananas are sweeter and softer, making them ideal for the bread. They will mash easily and contribute to the moist texture of the bread.

How Long Does Mary Berry’s Banana Fruit Bread Need To Bake?

Mary Berry’s banana fruit bread usually bakes for about 1 hour at 160°C (320°F) in a preheated fan oven. However, baking times can vary based on your oven and the size of the loaf tin, so it’s important to check by inserting a skewer into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean, the bread is done.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Banana Fruit Bread Ahead Of Time?

Yes, Mary Berry’s banana fruit bread can be made a day or two ahead of time. It stores well in an airtight container and stays moist. In fact, the flavors tend to deepen after sitting for a day.

How Can I Make Mary Berry’s Banana Fruit Bread Healthier?

To make the banana fruit bread healthier, you can use whole wheat flour instead of self-raising flour, reduce the sugar content, or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You can also swap some of the butter for Greek yogurt or a lower-fat alternative.

Can I Add Nuts Or Seeds To Mary Berry’s Banana Fruit Bread?

Yes, you can add nuts like walnuts or almonds, or seeds like sunflower or chia seeds, to Mary Berry’s banana fruit bread for extra texture and flavor. Just fold them into the batter before baking.

How Can I Store Mary Berry’s Banana Fruit Bread?

Store Mary Berry’s banana fruit bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil, for up to 3 months. Thaw it at room temperature when ready to eat.