Caramel Pecan Banana Bread

Caramel Pecan Banana Bread

Ingredients:

For the Banana Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup chopped pecans

For the Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For Topping:

• Extra chopped pecans

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Banana Bread:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
   • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
   • Add the mashed bananas and sour cream to the butter mixture, and mix until well combined.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Fold in the chopped pecans.
   • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
2. Bake the Banana Bread:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Prepare the Caramel Sauce:
   • In a medium saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts and turns a deep amber color.
   • Add the butter and stir until melted and combined. Be careful, as the mixture will bubble up.
   • Slowly pour in the heavy cream, continuing to stir until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
   • Let the caramel sauce cool slightly.
4. Assemble the Bread:
   • Once the banana bread has cooled, drizzle the caramel sauce over the top.
   • Sprinkle extra chopped pecans on top of the caramel sauce.
5. Serve:
   • Slice and serve the caramel pecan banana bread with a cup of coffee or tea.

Enjoy your rich and flavorful caramel pecan banana bread, a perfect treat for any time of day!