This Matcha Banana Bread is a creative twist on the classic banana bread, combining the earthy flavors of matcha with the sweetness of ripe bananas. It results in a beautifully marbled, soft, and fluffy loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack. If you’re a fan of matcha and looking for a delicious way to use up ripe bananas, this recipe is for you!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients:

¼ cup (1 stick) butter, melted
3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1½ – 2 cups)
2 large eggs
1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour (256g)
¾ cup white sugar (150g)
1 tsp baking soda (4.8g)
½ tsp salt (3g)
2 tbsp matcha powder (12g)

Optional Topping:

1 banana, halved (for topping)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with nonstick spray, butter, or shortening.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Add the mashed bananas, vanilla extract, and eggs. Stir until well combined.
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
Divide the batter into two bowls. In one bowl, mix in the matcha powder until fully combined.
Create the marble effect by alternating scoops of each batter into the loaf pan. Swirl them together with a chopstick or knife to create a beautiful pattern.
Place the halved banana on top of the loaf, cut side up.
Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the banana bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Nutrients (Per Serving – 1 Slice)

Calories: 371
Carbohydrates: 56g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 47mg
Sodium: 435mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 26g

The Appeal of Matcha in Baking

Matcha, finely ground powdered green tea leaves, has surged in popularity in recent years thanks to its unique flavor and health benefits. Often associated with Japanese tea ceremonies, matcha has a distinct earthy, slightly bitter taste that pairs wonderfully with sweet dishes like banana bread. Adding matcha to banana bread not only enhances the flavor but also brings a beautiful green hue to the loaf, creating a visually striking treat. The slightly bitter notes of matcha balance the sweetness of the ripe bananas, giving each bite a sophisticated twist. Beyond its flavor, matcha is packed with antioxidants, providing a healthful addition to your baking.

Ripe Bananas: The Secret to Moist Banana Bread

Ripe bananas are essential in creating the perfect banana bread. Their natural sugars make the bread incredibly sweet, while their high moisture content contributes to the soft and tender texture that banana bread is known for. When ripe bananas are mashed and added to the batter, they not only enhance the flavor but also act as a binder, helping to keep the loaf moist. The banana’s natural sweetness works in perfect harmony with the matcha, making each bite balanced and flavorful. It’s a great way to use up those overripe bananas that are just begging to be transformed into something delicious.

The Magic of Marbling: A Beautiful Visual Appeal

One of the most exciting features of this Matcha Banana Bread is the marbling effect that occurs when the green matcha batter and the banana batter are swirled together. As you alternate scoops of each batter into the loaf pan, you create a visually stunning pattern that makes each slice a work of art. This marbling effect not only makes the bread look gorgeous, but it also creates little pockets of matcha goodness throughout the loaf, giving each slice a wonderful texture and flavor profile. The sight of the green and golden swirls makes it the perfect treat for a special occasion or a thoughtful gift.

Simple Ingredients for a Delicious Outcome

While this Matcha Banana Bread may look sophisticated, the ingredients are simple and easy to find. The basic ingredients of flour, sugar, eggs, and baking soda are combined with mashed bananas to create the classic banana bread texture. What sets this recipe apart is the addition of matcha powder, which infuses the bread with its signature flavor and color. The optional topping of a halved banana placed on top of the loaf adds a decorative touch and enhances the visual appeal of the finished bread. This simple yet effective addition makes the bread even more delightful when served fresh out of the oven.

Perfect for Every Occasion

Matcha Banana Bread is incredibly versatile and suitable for a variety of occasions. Its slightly exotic flavor makes it a great choice for brunches, afternoon teas, or special gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a weekend get-together or enjoying a quiet morning at home, this banana bread offers a comforting treat that can be enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee. The loaf is also a fantastic way to impress guests at a holiday gathering, such as Easter or Mother’s Day. The beautiful marbling and the unique combination of matcha and bananas make this bread a standout dessert or snack.

Customizing Your Matcha Banana Bread

One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is. While the recipe calls for matcha and bananas as the star ingredients, you can experiment with additional flavors and textures to make the bread even more personalized. For example, you could add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter for a bit of crunch. Adding a handful of chocolate chips can also take this bread to the next level, pairing perfectly with the earthy matcha and sweet bananas. If you’re looking to make the bread even more indulgent, consider adding a swirl of Nutella or peanut butter for a richer, creamier twist.

For those who prefer a sweeter loaf, you can increase the amount of sugar or drizzle some maple syrup over the top after baking. Alternatively, if you want a more subtle sweetness, you can reduce the sugar content and let the natural sweetness of the bananas shine. This flexibility ensures that this Matcha Banana Bread can be adjusted to suit a wide range of tastes and preferences.

The Health Benefits of Matcha and Bananas

In addition to its unique flavor, matcha is often touted for its health benefits. Matcha contains high levels of antioxidants, which help combat free radicals in the body and reduce inflammation. It also provides a gentle energy boost thanks to its caffeine content, making it a great alternative to coffee. Matcha is also rich in L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and mental clarity, making it an excellent choice for those who want to feel alert and focused without the jitteriness that can come from coffee.

Bananas are another healthful ingredient in this recipe. They are an excellent source of potassium, which supports heart health and helps maintain fluid balance in the body. Bananas are also rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer. When combined with the other ingredients, bananas provide a satisfying and nourishing base for this delicious bread.

Conclusion: A Perfectly Balanced Treat

In conclusion, this Matcha Banana Bread is a delightful twist on the classic banana bread that combines the best of both worlds: the earthy flavor of matcha and the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. The result is a beautifully marbled, soft, and fluffy loaf that is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a dessert to impress your guests. The ease of preparation, along with the ability to customize the recipe to suit your taste, makes this a fantastic addition to any baking repertoire. With its visually appealing marbled effect, its delightful flavor profile, and its health benefits, this Matcha Banana Bread is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

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