A Tropical Delight

If you’re craving a sweet and tropical treat, this Jamaican Banana Bread with Lime Glaze is the perfect choice. Combining the comforting essence of ripe bananas with the island-inspired flavors of dark rum, coconut, and zesty lime, this recipe elevates a classic dessert to a whole new level. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice looking to impress, this recipe is approachable, delicious, and bound to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Jamaican Banana Bread is perfect for anyone who loves a hint of the tropics in their baked goods. The addition of dark rum and sweetened flaked coconut gives it a unique depth of flavor, while the lime glaze adds a refreshing tang that beautifully complements the sweetness of the bread. It’s moist, easy to make, and ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a mid-afternoon snack. Plus, it’s a great way to use up overripe bananas!

Ingredients for Jamaican Banana Bread

For the Banana Bread:

2 cups all-purpose flour
¾ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 cup raw or turbinado sugar
¼ cup butter, melted
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 ½ cups mashed ripe banana (approximately 3-4 bananas)
¼ cup plain low-fat yogurt
3 tbsp dark rum
½ tsp vanilla extract
½ cup plus 1 tbsp sweetened flaked coconut, divided

For the Lime Glaze:

½ cup powdered sugar
1 ½ tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice

Equipment You’ll Need

Mixing bowls (1 medium, 1 large)
Measuring cups and spoons
Electric mixer
Spatula
9×5-inch loaf pan
Non-stick cooking spray
Parchment paper
Cooling rack
Toothpick for testing doneness

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to combine the sugar and melted butter. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the mashed bananas, yogurt, dark rum, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

3. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense bread. Fold in ½ cup of the sweetened flaked coconut.

4. Prepare the Loaf Pan

Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal. Pour the batter into the pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle the remaining 1 tbsp of coconut over the batter.

5. Bake the Banana Bread

Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; it should come out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.

6. Prepare the Lime Glaze

While the bread bakes, whisk together powdered sugar and lime juice in a small bowl until smooth. Set aside.

7. Cool and Glaze

Once the banana bread is done, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. Drizzle the lime glaze over the top and allow the bread to cool completely before slicing.

Tips and Variations

Banana Substitute: If you’re short on bananas, unsweetened applesauce or pumpkin puree can work as a substitute.
Rum-Free Version: For a non-alcoholic version, replace the dark rum with orange juice or coconut water.
Add-ins: Feel free to mix in ½ cup of chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried pineapple for extra texture and flavor.
Coconut Variation: Unsweetened coconut can be used if you prefer a less sweet bread.

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to a week. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or heat briefly in the microwave.

Food Pairings

This banana bread pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a tropical twist, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh fruit like mango or pineapple. A refreshing glass of iced hibiscus tea or a rum-based cocktail can also complement the flavors wonderfully.

FAQ

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Ensure all other ingredients, like baking soda, are certified gluten-free.

What can I use instead of yogurt?

You can replace yogurt with sour cream, buttermilk, or a non-dairy yogurt alternative for a similar texture and taste.

Why is my banana bread dense?

Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense texture. Mix the ingredients just until combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! You can double the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans. Adjust baking time as needed and ensure even mixing for best results.

Conclusion

This Jamaican Banana Bread with Lime Glaze is a showstopper that’s both flavorful and easy to make. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a potluck, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress.

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