Banana Bread in a Mason Jar Recipe

Banana bread is a timeless classic that fills your home with warmth and comfort. But have you ever thought about baking it in a mason jar? This unique twist on a beloved favorite adds a charming touch to your baking and makes for a delightful gift idea. Get ready to embark on a baking adventure with this Banana Bread in a Mason Jar recipe. From the aroma of ripe bananas to the cozy feel of your kitchen, this recipe promises to delight your senses and satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients:

• 3 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups mashed bananas
• 2/3 cup water
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 2/3 cup shortening
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 2/3 cups white sugar
• 4 eggs
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 2/3 cup chopped pecans

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease the insides of 8 (8-ounce) mason jars with cooking spray or butter.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, water, shortening, sugar, eggs, cinnamon, and cloves. Mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared mason jars, filling each jar no more than halfway full.
7. Place the filled jars on a baking sheet and transfer them to the preheated oven.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a jar comes out clean.
9. Once baked, carefully remove the jars from the oven using oven mitts. Allow the banana bread to cool completely before sealing the jars with lids.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Ensure that the mason jars are oven-safe before using them for baking.
• Customize your banana bread by adding chocolate chips, raisins, or shredded coconut to the batter.
• For a nut-free version, omit the pecans or substitute them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
• Experiment with different spices such as nutmeg or ginger for a unique flavor profile.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

• While traditional banana bread is high in carbs, you can make a keto-friendly version by using almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• Substitute mashed bananas with mashed avocado or pumpkin puree for a lower-carb option.
• Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia in place of white sugar to reduce the carb content.
• Adjust the baking time and temperature accordingly when using alternative flours to prevent burning or drying out the bread.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I bake the banana bread directly in the mason jar without a baking sheet? A: It’s best to place the filled mason jars on a baking sheet to ensure even baking and prevent the jars from tipping over in the oven.

Q: How long will the banana bread in a mason jar last? A: Stored properly with the lids sealed tightly, the banana bread can last for up to 1 week at room temperature or up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I freeze the banana bread in the mason jars? A: Yes, you can freeze the banana bread in the mason jars for up to 3 months. Allow them to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Q: Can I decorate the mason jars before gifting them? A: Absolutely! Get creative with ribbons, labels, or personalized tags to make your banana bread jars extra special for gifting.

In conclusion, Banana Bread in a Mason Jar is not only a delicious treat but also a fun and creative way to enjoy this classic recipe. Whether you’re baking for yourself or gifting to loved ones, the charming presentation adds an extra touch of warmth and thoughtfulness. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up a batch of these delightful banana bread jars in no time. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and let the baking begin!