If you’ve ever wished you could carry your favorite homemade treat with you wherever you go, this Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe is the answer. Imagine the comforting aroma of warm banana bread packed neatly in a jar, ready to enjoy at any moment without any fuss. This charming twist on a classic favorite combines the rich, moist textures of traditional banana bread with an unbelievably convenient and adorable presentation that makes it perfect for gifts, picnics, or a simple on-the-go snack. Let’s dive into this sweet, spiced delight that is sure to become your new staple.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential to achieve that perfect balance of moistness, sweetness, and spice in your Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe. Each component plays a key role, from the tender crumb of the bread to the warm, cozy flavors that make every bite irresistible.
- â…” cup shortening: Adds moisture and tenderness to the bread’s crumb without overpowering the banana flavor.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread while helping with browning for a beautiful golden crust.
- 4 eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide richness for a soft texture.
- 2 cups over-ripe bananas (mashed): The star of the show gives intense natural sweetness and moistness.
- â…” cup water: Hydrates the batter to create a tender, soft bread.
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Gives structure and the perfect balance to the bread’s density.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: Adds a touch of lift to lighten the texture.
- 2 teaspoons baking soda: Works with the bananas to make the bread rise perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet and spiced notes for a well-rounded flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings warm spice that complements the bananas beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves: Adds a subtle, aromatic depth without overwhelming the bread.
- â…” cup pecans (chopped): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty richness to every bite.
How to Make Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure a perfect slow bake that tenderizes the bread inside the jars. Meanwhile, arrange your jars on a large baking sheet and generously spray them with non-stick cooking spray. This little preparation step is key to preventing any sticking and helps create an effortless release later on.
Step 2: Cream the Basics
In a large mixing bowl, beat the shortening and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This creaming process is what gives your banana bread that tender, airy texture. Then, incorporate the eggs, mashed ripe bananas, and water, blending everything beautifully until you achieve a luscious, smooth batter.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Combine your flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cloves in a medium bowl. Whisk these dry ingredients well so that the aromatic spices and leavening agents are evenly dispersed, ensuring that every bite bursts with flavor and the perfect rise.
Step 4: Combine the Batter
Spoon the dry mixture into your wet banana batter gradually—one cup at a time—mixing thoroughly but gently between additions. This slow process helps keep your bread light and tender. Finally, fold in the chopped pecans for that irresistible crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the soft bread.
Step 5: Fill the Jars and Bake
Using a small measuring cup or scoop, fill each greased jar about halfway with banana bread batter. It’s important to wipe any drips off the jar edges to avoid burning and ensure a clean presentation. Place the jars on the baking sheet and bake them at 325 degrees for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean and the tops feel springy to the touch.
Step 6: Seal and Cool
While the jars bake, sterilize the lids and rings by boiling them to prevent any bacteria and ensure a safe seal. After removing the jars from the oven, carefully place the lids on top and screw on the rings tightly. The cooling process will create a vacuum seal, preserving the freshness and flavor of your banana bread in a truly unique way. If the bread has risen beyond the jar’s rim, gently press it down before sealing.
How to Serve Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey on top of your banana bread in a jar instantly elevates its appearance and adds a light sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spiced banana flavor. For an extra touch, a dollop of whipped cream or a smear of softened butter can transform this snack into a delectable mini dessert experience.
Side Dishes
While the banana bread in itself is a star, pairing it with small sides like fresh fruit, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a cup of hot coffee or tea completes the vibe perfectly. These combinations bring balance and highlight the warmth and sweetness of the bread, making for a well-rounded and satisfying treat.
Creative Ways to Present
The presentation possibilities are endless! Wrap a rustic twine bow around the jar with a handwritten tag for a heartfelt gift, or line the jars in a picnic basket with a cozy blanket for outdoor enjoyment. For parties, arrange the banana bread jars on a dessert bar with little spoons and various toppings like crushed nuts or chocolate chips to let guests customize their own jars.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your sealed banana bread jars keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to one week, locking in moistness and flavor. Storing them in jars means they won’t dry out like typical banana bread, so you can enjoy them slowly without sacrificing freshness.
Freezing
To extend the life of your banana bread in a jar recipe, simply keep them sealed and pop the jars in the freezer. Frozen banana bread jars maintain their taste and texture for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Warm your banana bread right in the jar by placing it in a 350-degree oven for 10-15 minutes, or microwave the jar (without the metal lid) for about 20 seconds for a quick but cozy bite. This reheating step revives the lovely softness and aroma of freshly baked banana bread anytime you crave it.
FAQs
Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts are a fantastic substitute that adds a slightly different but equally delicious texture and flavor. Feel free to swap the pecans with walnuts or even skip nuts if you have allergies.
What size jars should I use for this recipe?
Standard 8-ounce (half-pint) canning jars work perfectly for this recipe, giving you the ideal portion size and allowing enough room for the bread to rise without spilling over during baking.
Is it safe to bake directly in jars?
Yes, as long as you use heat-safe canning jars and follow the baking instructions carefully. Preparing the jars by greasing them well and not filling them to the brim helps prevent breakage and ensures great results.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, so testing it once is a good idea to make sure it matches your preferences.
How long does the banana bread keep after opening the jar?
Once opened, it’s best to consume the banana bread within two to three days to enjoy its freshness. Be sure to keep it refrigerated and covered to prevent drying out.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve discovered this delightful Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe, it’s time to bring the cozy warmth and sweetness of homemade banana bread to your kitchen in a fun and convenient way. Whether for yourself or as a thoughtful gift, these charming jars filled with tender, spiced bread are bound to bring smiles and satisfy cravings. Go ahead, grab some ripe bananas, and start baking your own little jars of happiness today!
Print
Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 jars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in this charming Banana Bread in a Jar recipe, perfect for portion-controlled treats or gifting. Moist and flavorful banana bread infused with warm spices and crunchy pecans is baked directly in jars, creating a unique presentation and preserving freshness with a night-before airtight seal.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- â…” cup shortening
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 eggs
- 2 cups over-ripe bananas, mashed
- â…” cup water
Dry Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
Additional
- â…” cup pecans, chopped
- Non-stick cooking spray (for greasing jars)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F to ensure it’s properly heated before baking the banana bread in jars.
- Prepare Jars: Place clean jars on a large baking sheet and lightly grease each with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking during baking.
- Cream Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together shortening and sugar until the texture is light and fluffy. Then, beat in eggs, mashed bananas, and water until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves in a separate medium bowl to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet banana mixture one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition to create a uniform batter. Finally, gently fold in the chopped pecans.
- Fill the Jars: Using a small measuring cup, carefully scoop the batter into each greased jar, filling about halfway to allow room for rising. Wipe any batter from the jar rims to ensure a clean seal later.
- Bake the Bread: Place the baking sheet with jars in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when ready.
- Sterilize Lids and Rings: While baking, sterilize the jar lids and screw rings by submerging them in boiling water for several minutes. Let them cool to room temperature before use.
- Seal the Jars: Remove the jars from the oven and immediately place the sterilized lids and screw on the rings tightly. Press down gently if the bread has risen above the jar tops. The jars will vacuum seal as the bread cools.
- Cool and Store: Allow the banana bread jars to cool to room temperature. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to a week. Enjoy the bread warm or chilled.
Notes
- Ensure jars are properly sterilized before use to avoid contamination and ensure a good seal.
- Use over-ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture in the bread.
- Filling jars halfway allows the bread to rise without overflow during baking.
- Cool jars completely before serving or storing to maintain texture and flavor.
- These banana bread jars make excellent gifts when sealed properly.
- Adjust spices to taste if you prefer more or less cinnamon or cloves.
