Jamaican Banana Bread

Here’s a Jamaican Banana Bread recipe that’s packed with tropical flavors and a hint of spice:

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice (optional)
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
• 1 tablespoon rum (optional, for added Jamaican flair)
• Zest of 1 lime

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Add the melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, eggs, and rum (if using). Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.
3. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
4. Mix wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring just until incorporated.
5. Add mix-ins: Fold in the shredded coconut, nuts, raisins, and lime zest.
6. Pour into the loaf pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Tips:

• For extra moisture, you can add an extra mashed banana or a spoonful of sour cream to the batter.
• If you like a stronger rum flavor, you can brush the top of the warm bread with a little extra rum after baking.

Enjoy your Jamaican Banana Bread!