Banana Bread with Walnut and Maple Glaze

This banana bread combines the traditional moist and sweet flavors of ripe bananas with the crunch of walnuts and a luscious maple glaze. The addition of cinnamon and a hint of vanilla elevates the classic recipe, making it perfect for breakfast or as a delightful snack. It respects dietary needs by being vegetarian and easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup maple syrup

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter.
3. Mix in the baking soda and salt. Then, add the sugar, beaten egg, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon, stirring until well combined.
4. Gradually mix in the flour until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Fold in the chopped walnuts.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. While the bread is baking, prepare the maple glaze by heating the maple syrup in a small saucepan over low heat until slightly thickened.
9. Once the bread is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
10. Drizzle the warm maple glaze over the bread before serving.