Arteflame Banana Bread Recipe (Using the Pizza Oven)

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

1. 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.
2. Use an oven thermometer to ensure consistent temperature for baking.

Step 2: Mix the Banana Bread Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
2. Stir in the melted butter and sugar until combined.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.  (If you don't have vanilla extract, you can also use some vanilla coffee creamer.)
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
6. Fold in nuts or chocolate chips if desired.

Step 3: Prepare the Loaf Pan

1. 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!
2. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top.

Step 4: Bake in the Pizza Oven

1. Place the loaf pan in the center of the Arteflame pizza oven.
2. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. 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

1. Remove the banana bread from the pizza oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
2. Transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
3. Serve warm or at room temperature, plain or with butter.

Tips for Perfect Banana Bread

1. Ripe Bananas: Use overripe bananas for the best sweetness and flavor.
2. Maintain Heat: Monitor the pizza oven temperature closely to ensure even baking.
3. Customization: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to make the bread your own.

Variations

1. Chocolate Banana Bread: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the batter and increase sugar by 2 tbsp.
2. Nutty Banana Bread: Use chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
3. Tropical Banana Bread: Add shredded coconut and diced pineapple to the batter.
4. Spiced Banana Bread: Add a pinch of nutmeg and cloves for a warm spice profile.
5. 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.