Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe

If you’ve ever wished you could carry the cozy comfort of homemade banana bread on the go, this Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe is your golden ticket. Imagine savoring tender, moist banana bread infused with warm spices right out of a charming little jar—perfectly portioned, beautifully sealed, and wonderfully fresh every single time. This recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a delightful twist on the classic, turning banana bread into a portable treat that’s as charming as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple yet essential, each ingredient in this Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe plays a vital role in crafting the perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the richness of shortening to the cozy spices that give it that irresistible aroma, these ingredients come together to create magic within each jar.

• ⅔ cup shortening: Adds moistness and a tender crumb to the bread.
• 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread while helping it to brown beautifully.
• 4 eggs: Provide structure and richness for a perfect rise.
• 2 cups over-ripe bananas (mashed): Deliver natural sweetness and intense banana flavor.
• ⅔ cup water: Keeps the batter smooth and hydrating for the perfect texture.
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation, giving the bread its body and stability.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise gently for fluffiness.
• 2 teaspoons baking soda: Reacts with bananas to create lift and tenderness.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings warm, inviting spice notes.
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves: Adds a subtle depth and aromatic kick.
• ⅔ cup chopped pecans: Offer delightful crunch and a nutty flavor contrast.

How to Make Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Jars

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. While it’s warming up, place your jars on a large baking sheet and spray them generously with non-stick cooking spray. This little step ensures your banana bread will slide right out when you’re ready to enjoy it, plus it makes clean-up a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat the shortening and sugar together with an electric mixer until the mixture becomes light and fluffy — this is key to a tender crumb. Then, add the eggs, mashed bananas, and water, blending well until smooth and fully incorporated. This luscious base brings all the moisture and sweetness your banana bread needs.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cloves in a separate bowl. This blend of spices and leavening agents will give your banana bread that perfectly spiced warmth and the ideal texture we all love.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture gradually—one cup at a time—mixing thoroughly between each addition. When all the flour mixture is absorbed, gently fold in the chopped pecans. This delicate mixing preserves the lightness while distributing the nuts evenly.

Step 5: Fill the Jars

Use a small measuring cup to scoop the batter into your prepared jars, filling them about halfway. Don’t forget to wipe off any batter drips on the sides of the jars to ensure a neat presentation after baking.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the jars without their lids on the baking sheet at 325°F for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This slow, even bake lets the banana bread set perfectly within its jar home.

Step 7: Prepare the Lids While Baking

While the banana bread is baking, sterilize the lids and rings by boiling them in water for a few minutes. Let them cool at room temperature; this sanitation step is crucial for safe sealing and storage.

Step 8: Seal the Jars Immediately

When the bread comes out of the oven, quickly place the cooled lids on top of each jar and screw on the rings tightly. The heat causes a vacuum seal as the bread cools, locking in freshness. If any bread has risen above the rim, press it gently down before sealing.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Allow your jarred banana bread to cool completely before serving or storing. Whether eaten warm or chilled, these portions are perfect for gifting, snacking, or storing for later enjoyment.

How to Serve Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate your banana bread in a jar, making it even more inviting. Try a swirl of honey or a dollop of creamy peanut butter on top just before serving, or sprinkle more chopped pecans for extra crunch and appeal.

Side Dishes

This banana bread is a great partner for breakfast or snack time. Serve alongside a smooth cup of coffee, a glass of cold milk, or even a light fruit salad for a refreshing balance of flavors and textures.

Creative Ways to Present

These jars themselves are charming enough to pop open as-is, but why not dress them up for a special occasion? Tie a rustic twine bow around the neck of each jar, add a personalized tag, or layer the banana bread with a bit of cream cheese frosting for a dessert-style presentation that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Banana bread in a jar stays moist and fresh longer due to its sealed environment. Store any leftover jars in the refrigerator, where they will keep for up to one week, making it easy to enjoy a quick treat whenever you want.

Freezing

For longer storage, these jars can be frozen (make sure not to seal before cooling completely). Simply wrap each jar in a layer of foil and place them in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and then bring to room temperature.

Reheating

To reheat, remove the lid and microwave the jar’s contents for 30-45 seconds, or warm the jar in a water bath. This gently brings back the fresh-from-the-oven warmth without drying out the bread.

FAQs

Can I use fresh bananas instead of over-ripe ones?

While over-ripe bananas are ideal because they’re sweeter and softer, you can use fresh bananas if necessary. Just mash them well and consider adding a touch more sugar to achieve the same sweetness and moistness.

Are these jars reusable?

Absolutely! Once you’ve enjoyed your banana bread, the jars make perfect containers for jams, homemade spices, or new baking adventures. Just clean and sterilize them properly to use again safely.

Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?

Yes! Walnuts, almonds, or even chopped hazelnuts work wonderfully and add their own unique crunch and flavor to the bread.

How long can I keep the banana bread sealed in jars?

If properly sealed and refrigerated, the banana bread can last up to one week, maintaining its moist texture and fresh flavor.

What’s the best way to sterilize the jars and lids?

Submerging jars, lids, and rings in boiling water for several minutes is an effective and simple way to sterilize them before use, ensuring food safety and better storage.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the charm and convenience of this Banana Bread in a Jar Recipe. It captures the heartwarming flavors of homemade banana bread while making it easy to enjoy anywhere, anytime. Whether you’re gifting these sweet jars or keeping them all to yourself, they’re sure to bring smiles and cozy moments. Give this recipe a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without your personal jar of banana delight!

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