Name: 3 Minute Microwave Banana Bread Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 4 min
Total time: 9 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ripe banana; 1 egg; 2 tablespoons all purpose flour; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; Optional: crushed walnuts; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon water (or as much as needed to dissolve the sugar)

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Introduction

This 3 Minute Microwave Banana Bread is a quick and easy treat perfect for when you want a comforting snack without the wait. With simple ingredients and a luscious caramel sauce, you can enjoy a warm, moist banana bread in just minutes.

A small round dessert with two visible layers sits on a white plate. The bottom layer is light beige and looks like a soft cake base. The top layer is thick, textured, and pinkish-orange mixed with a red jam-like glaze that covers the sides and top, making it shiny and slightly sticky. On top of the dessert, there is a glossy, smooth, brown chocolate egg resting gently. The background is a kitchen setting with a white marbled surface, giving a clean and bright look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 banana
1 egg
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Crushed walnuts (optional)

For the Caramel Sauce

1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 tablespoon water (or as much as needed to dissolve the sugar)

Instructions

Step 1: Mash the banana thoroughly in a small mixing bowl until smooth.
Step 2: Add the egg to the mashed banana and mix until combined.
Step 3: Stir in the all-purpose flour and granulated sugar evenly.
Step 4: Pour in the vanilla extract and mix well.
Step 5: Add the baking powder and stir gently to incorporate.
Step 6: In a microwave-safe mug, combine the granulated sugar and water for the caramel sauce.
Step 7: Microwave the sugar mixture for about 2 minutes, watching carefully until it turns a deep amber color.
Step 8: Remove the mug from the microwave and swirl the caramel sauce around the sides to coat the mug.
Step 9: Spoon the banana bread batter into the mug over the caramel sauce. Optionally, sprinkle crushed walnuts on top.
Step 10: Microwave the mug for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
Use ripe bananas for best natural sweetness and moisture.
Try swapping crushed walnuts with chocolate chips for a different twist.
If you prefer, skip the caramel sauce and drizzle honey or maple syrup after cooking.

Storage

This banana bread is best enjoyed immediately for optimal texture. If you have leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave before serving to restore warmth.

How to Serve

Two small upside-down cakes sit on a white plate over a white marbled surface. Each cake has two layers: the bottom layer is a soft, light golden yellow cake with a moist texture, while the top layer is a rich, glossy caramelized topping in a deep amber brown that slightly drips down the sides. The shiny caramel layer is smooth with small bubbles visible, giving the cakes a sticky and sweet appearance. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this banana bread without a microwave?

This recipe is designed for the microwave to cook quickly. You could bake the batter in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, but timing will vary and you’ll miss the caramel mug effect.

Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with almond or gluten-free flour?

All-purpose flour works best for texture, but you can try gluten-free flour blends. Almond flour may make the bread denser and require slight adjustments to wet ingredients.