Greetings, fellow food enthusiasts and bakers with a sense of whimsy! Today, we're embarking on a delightful culinary adventure to create Bear Banana Cream Bread. 🐻🍌
I recently discovered this charming recipe for Bear Banana Cream Bread on Cotta, and I couldn't resist the urge to share it with all of you. This adorable twist on classic banana bread combines the comforting flavors of ripe bananas with the whimsical appeal of bear-shaped bread. It's perfect for kids and those who are kids at heart.
So, let's put on our aprons, gather our ingredients, and embark on this creative baking journey together.
Ingredients:
For the Banana Bread:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Bear Shape:
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- A pinch of salt
For the Banana Cream Filling:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 ripe banana, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a bear-shaped silicone mold or a regular loaf pan if you prefer a classic shape.
2. Make the Banana Bread Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed ripe bananas and melted unsalted butter.
- Stir in the granulated sugar, large egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Add Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Create the Bear Shape:
- In a small bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix until it forms a smooth paste.
- Press this mixture into your bear-shaped silicone mold, ensuring it covers the entire surface evenly. Alternatively, you can shape this paste into bear ears, eyes, nose, and mouth and place them on top of the banana bread batter in a regular loaf pan.
5. Pour and Bake:
- Pour the banana bread batter into the prepared mold or loaf pan.
- If using a bear-shaped mold, gently tap it on the countertop to ensure the batter settles evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the bread comes out clean.
6. Make the Banana Cream Filling:
- While the bear banana bread is cooling, prepare the banana cream filling.
- Whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form.
- Slice the ripe banana thinly.
7. Assemble:
- Once the bear banana bread has cooled, carefully remove it from the mold.
- Slice it in half horizontally and spread a generous layer of banana cream on the bottom half.
- Arrange the thinly sliced banana on top of the cream.
- Place the top half of the bear-shaped bread on top.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice your bear banana cream bread and serve. It's a delightful treat that combines the classic goodness of banana bread with the whimsy of a bear shape and the creamy sweetness of banana cream.
The result? A Bear Banana Cream Bread that's as fun to look at as it is to eat. It's a perfect snack or dessert for kids and a charming addition to any brunch table.
So, embrace your inner child and share the joy of baking and creativity with Bear Banana Cream Bread. It's bound to bring smiles to faces of all ages. Happy baking and happy bear-shaped snacking! 🐻🍌