Introduction:
Baking banana bread in the Arteflame pizza oven adds a delightful smoky flavor to this classic treat. The even heat distribution ensures a perfectly moist and fluffy loaf with a golden crust. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack!
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Pizza Oven
- Light the Arteflame by placing vegetable oil-soaked napkins under firewood. Allow the oven to heat for about 30 minutes until it reaches a stable temperature of 350°F (175°C). Do not place firewood directly underneath the area where you're going to bake the bread to ensure even heat.
- Use an oven thermometer to ensure consistent temperature for baking.
Step 2: Mix the Banana Bread Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
- Stir in the melted butter and sugar until combined.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well. (If you don't have vanilla extract, you can also use some vanilla coffee creamer.)
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Fold in nuts or chocolate chips if desired.
Step 3: Prepare the Loaf Pan
- Grease a large shallow pan with butter or non-stick spray, or line it with parchment paper. Remember, the loaf will rise and you don't want it to get stuck in the oven!
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top.
Step 4: Bake in the Pizza Oven
- Place the loaf pan in the center of the Arteflame pizza oven.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Check every 20 minutes to ensure the oven temperature remains stable. Rotate the pan if necessary to ensure even baking.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Remove the banana bread from the pizza oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, plain or with butter.
Tips for Perfect Banana Bread
- Ripe Bananas: Use overripe bananas for the best sweetness and flavor.
- Maintain Heat: Monitor the pizza oven temperature closely to ensure even baking.
- Customization: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to make the bread your own.
Variations
- Chocolate Banana Bread: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the batter and increase sugar by 2 tbsp.
- Nutty Banana Bread: Use chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Tropical Banana Bread: Add shredded coconut and diced pineapple to the batter.
- Spiced Banana Bread: Add a pinch of nutmeg and cloves for a warm spice profile.
- Gluten-Free Banana Bread: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Pairings
- Breakfast: Serve with coffee or a smoothie.
- Dessert: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Snack: Enjoy with a smear of cream cheese or peanut butter.
Conclusion
Arteflame Banana Bread baked in the pizza oven is a unique and delicious way to enjoy this classic treat. The subtle smokiness from the pizza oven adds depth to the flavor, making it a standout dish for any occasion.
