This Marble Cake Banana Bread combines the classic sweetness of banana with rich chocolate swirls, creating a delicious twist on traditional banana bread. The chocolate and banana flavors complement each other beautifully, making each bite indulgent yet balanced. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
This isn’t just any banana bread! The marbled effect creates a beautiful presentation while adding layers of flavor. The swirls of chocolate not only look great but also give this banana bread a satisfying richness. Plus, it’s simple to make with everyday ingredients, making it an impressive yet approachable recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 large bananas – mashed for natural sweetness
- 80ml vegetable oil – keeps the bread moist
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract – adds depth to the banana flavor
- 1 large egg (or flax egg for a vegan option) – helps bind the ingredients
- 2 tbsp yogurt – adds creaminess
- 140g caster sugar – for sweetness
- 40g light brown sugar – adds a hint of caramel flavor
- 200g self-raising flour – helps the bread rise and stay light
- 50g ground almonds (or sub with more flour) – adds texture and a subtle nutty flavor
- 1 tsp baking powder – for a light rise
- 1 tsp cinnamon – adds warmth and complements the banana
- 2 tbsp cacao powder – for the chocolate swirl
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, egg, yogurt, caster sugar, and light brown sugar. Mix until smooth and well-combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the self-raising flour, ground almonds, baking powder, and cinnamon. Gently fold until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Create the Chocolate Swirl: Divide the batter evenly into two bowls. Add the cacao powder to one bowl and mix until smooth.
- Layer and Swirl: Alternate spoonfuls of the plain and chocolate batter into a greased loaf pan, creating layers. Once all the batter is in the pan, use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the mixtures together, forming the marble effect.
- Bake: Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
Baking Tips for Success
- Ripe Bananas: Use bananas that are soft and well-ripened for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until combined; overmixing can make the bread dense.
- Check for Doneness: If the top starts browning too quickly, cover with foil for the final 10 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your Marble Cake Banana Bread warm with a bit of butter or your favorite spread. It also pairs beautifully with coffee or tea. For an extra treat, top with a drizzle of melted chocolate.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a quick treat.
Marble Cake Banana Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 large bananas mashed
- 80 ml vegetable oil
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg or flax egg as substitute
- 2 tbsp yogurt
- 140 g caster sugar
- 40 g light brown sugar
- 200 g self-raising flour
- 50 g ground almonds can substitute with additional flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp cacao powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Mash the bananas in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the vegetable oil, vanilla extract, egg (or flax egg), yogurt, caster sugar, and light brown sugar. Mix until combined and smooth.
- Fold in the self-raising flour, ground almonds, baking powder, and cinnamon. Stir until you have a smooth batter.
- Divide the batter equally into two bowls. Add the cacao powder to one bowl and mix until smooth.
- In a greased loaf pan, alternate spoonfuls of plain and chocolate batter until you have used all the batter.
- Use a knife or skewer to swirl the batter, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes or until golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for a sweeter taste.
- If substituting flax egg, mix 1 tbsp flaxseed meal with 3 tbsp water.
- Ground almonds can be substituted with more flour if preferred.
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