Prepare for an explosion of flavor with this incredibly decadent Crock-Pot Bourbon Banana Bread! Imagine the rich, sweet aroma filling your home as this exquisite bread bakes slowly to perfection. It’s not just banana bread; it’s a sublime experience, boasting a moist, tender crumb infused with the sophisticated warmth of bourbon and the delightful crunch of toasted pecans. This recipe is a true testament to the magic of slow cooker baking, transforming simple ingredients into a show-stopping treat.
Crock-Pot Bourbon Banana Bread: A Fall Favorite
There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a freshly baked loaf, especially when the weather cools and the leaves begin to turn. This Crock-Pot Bourbon Banana Bread perfectly captures the essence of fall baking. We recently discovered the delightful addition of bourbon to our recipes, and it has quickly become a star ingredient in our kitchen, especially for hearty, soul-warming dishes. The unique smoky-sweet notes of bourbon elevate classic banana bread, adding a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.
As the days grow shorter and a crisp chill fills the air in places like Spokane, our thoughts naturally turn to more robust and comforting recipes. This is where the slow cooker truly shines. It allows us to prepare delicious, complex flavors with minimal effort, filling the house with tantalizing aromas all day long. For those of us who work from home, the simmering scent of something wonderful cooking in the crock-pot can be a delightful, albeit sometimes distracting, perk!
Why Choose the Slow Cooker for Banana Bread?
Baking banana bread in a slow cooker might sound unconventional, but it’s a technique that yields exceptional results. The consistent, gentle heat of a crock-pot creates an incredibly moist and tender loaf, far surpassing what a traditional oven often achieves. Here’s why slow cooker bourbon banana bread is a game-changer:
- Unmatched Moisture: The enclosed environment of the slow cooker traps steam, ensuring your banana bread stays wonderfully moist and never dries out.
- Hands-Off Baking: Once you’ve assembled your ingredients, simply set it and forget it. No need to constantly check the oven or worry about uneven baking.
- Aromatic Delight: The extended cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the delicious aroma of cinnamon, banana, and bourbon will permeate your home for hours.
- Perfect for Busy Days: Ideal for weekends or busy weekdays when you want a homemade treat without being tied to the kitchen.
- Energy Efficient: Slow cookers often use less energy than a conventional oven, making them a smart choice for long cooking times.
The Star Ingredients: Bourbon, Bananas, and Pecans
The success of this extraordinary banana bread lies in the thoughtful combination of its key ingredients. Each plays a crucial role in creating the rich, complex flavor profile that makes this recipe so beloved.
The Allure of Bourbon in Baking
Bourbon is more than just a spirit; it’s a flavor enhancer. Its distinct notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, often with a hint of smokiness, complement the sweetness of ripe bananas beautifully. When incorporated into baked goods, the alcohol evaporates during cooking, leaving behind a deep, rich flavor that adds sophistication without being overpowering. Don’t worry about the alcohol content; it bakes out, leaving only the exquisite essence. If you prefer to omit alcohol, a good quality vanilla extract or a dash of non-alcoholic bourbon flavoring can be used as a substitute, though the depth of flavor will differ.
The Sweetness of Ripe Bananas
For the best banana bread, always use very ripe bananas. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots or even entirely brown peels. These bananas are sweeter and softer, making them easier to mash and ensuring a richer banana flavor in your bread. If your bananas aren’t quite ripe enough, you can speed up the process by baking them in their skins at 300°F (150°C) for 15-30 minutes until they turn black and soft.
Crunchy Toasted Pecans (Optional, but Recommended!)
The addition of chopped toasted pecans provides a delightful textural contrast to the soft, moist bread. Toasting the pecans beforehand brings out their nutty flavor, adding another layer of complexity to each bite. While optional, we highly recommend them for that extra special touch. If pecans aren’t your preference, walnuts or a mix of nuts can also be used.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Bread and Glaze
Bread Ingredients:
- Original Bisquick mix: The secret to an easy, consistently good base.
- Mashed ripe bananas: Essential for moisture and flavor.
- Granulated sugar: For balanced sweetness.
- Butter: Adds richness and tenderness.
- Bourbon: For that distinctive warm, smoky undertone.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the other sweet flavors.
- Eggs: Binds the ingredients and provides structure.
- Ground cinnamon: A classic spice that pairs perfectly with banana.
- Chopped toasted pecans: {Optional} For added crunch and nutty flavor.
Glaze Ingredients:
- Melted butter: The base for a rich glaze.
- Powdered sugar: Creates a smooth, sweet frosting.
- Bourbon: A hint of bourbon in the glaze ties all the flavors together.
- Hot water: To achieve the perfect drizzling consistency.
Essential Equipment for Slow Cooker Success
Having the right tools makes all the difference in achieving perfect results with your Crock-Pot Bourbon Banana Bread. Here are the items we recommend:
Large Mixing Bowl: A sturdy, spacious mixing bowl is crucial for combining all your ingredients thoroughly without spills. We particularly love glass batter bowls with a handle, as they offer stability on the counter and make pouring the batter into the slow cooker much easier.
Parchment Paper: This is a secret weapon for hassle-free slow cooker baking. Lining your slow cooker with parchment paper prevents the bread from sticking and makes removing the finished loaf incredibly easy. It also simplifies cleanup, saving you time and effort.
Crock-Pot (Slow Cooker): The star of this recipe! We highly recommend using a slow cooker with a digital timer that automatically switches to a “warm” setting once the cooking time is complete. This feature is incredibly convenient, ensuring your bread doesn’t overcook if you’re not there to turn it off right away. It offers peace of mind and perfectly cooked results every time.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Bourbon Banana Bread
Creating this delicious Crock-Pot Bourbon Banana Bread is a straightforward process, promising a delightful reward. Follow these detailed steps for the best results:
Crock-Pot Bourbon Banana Bread
How to make Bourbon Banana Bread in the crockpot. The slow cooker makes this Bourbon Banana Bread super moist.
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8
523
kcal
Tammilee Tips
Ingredients
Bread Ingredients
- 2 ⅔ Cups Bisquick Baking Mix
- 1 ½ Cups Bananas mashed ripe
- ¾ Cup White Sugar
- ⅓ Cup Butter melted
- 2 tablespoons Bourbon
- 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 3 Eggs
- 1 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- ¾ Cup chopped toasted pecans Optional
Glaze Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Butter melted
- 1 Cup Confectioners Powdered Sugar
- 1 Tablespoon Bourbon
- 1 Teaspoon hot water
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly spray the bottom of your slow cooker with cooking spray. For easier removal and cleanup, consider lining the crock with parchment paper, allowing it to overhang the sides for handles. Sprinkle a thin layer of Bisquick mix over the bottom of the prepared slow cooker. This helps prevent sticking and can give the bottom a slightly crispier texture.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine your mashed ripe bananas, granulated sugar, ⅓ cup melted butter, 2 tablespoons bourbon, vanilla extract, and eggs. Stir these ingredients together until they are well blended and smooth. Ensure there are no large lumps of banana remaining.
- Fold in Dry Ingredients and Pecans: Gently stir in the remaining Bisquick mix and ground cinnamon into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough bread. Finally, fold in ½ cup of the chopped toasted pecans. Pour the entire batter evenly into the prepared slow cooker.
- Slow Cook the Bread: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on the HIGH heat setting for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Cooking times can vary based on your slow cooker, so check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready. Once done, turn off the slow cooker, uncover, and carefully remove the ceramic insert (if applicable) to a cooling rack. Allow the bread to cool in the insert for about 15-20 minutes.
- Cool and Remove: After initial cooling, gently loosen the edges of the bread with a spatula. Using the parchment paper handles or carefully inverting the insert, remove the bread from the slow cooker and transfer it to a wire cooling rack. Allow it to cool completely for at least 1 hour before glazing. This step is crucial for the bread to set properly and prevent it from crumbling.
- Prepare and Apply Glaze: While the bread cools, prepare your bourbon glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the 2 tablespoons of melted butter, confectioners’ powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of bourbon, and 1 teaspoon of hot water. Mix until the glaze is smooth and has the consistency of a thick syrup – thick enough to cling to the spoon but still pourable. Once the bread is cool, generously drizzle the glaze over the top. Serve immediately or store for later enjoyment.
Kitchen Tools
- Slow cooker
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Parchment Paper
Nutrition
Calories from Fat 225
Tips for the Best Crock-Pot Bourbon Banana Bread
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the Bisquick, leading to a tougher, denser bread. A few small lumps are perfectly fine!
- Grease and Flour (or Parchment): Even if using parchment paper, a light spray of cooking oil can add an extra layer of non-stick security. The Bisquick sprinkle acts like flouring a pan, providing a slight crust.
- Checking for Doneness: Slow cooker baking can be a bit different from oven baking. The toothpick test is your best friend. Make sure it comes out clean, without any wet batter.
- Cool Completely: Resist the urge to slice into your warm bread immediately. Allowing the banana bread to cool completely on a wire rack helps it firm up and prevents it from crumbling. It also allows the flavors to fully develop.
- Even Heating: Ensure your slow cooker is on a flat, stable surface for even heat distribution.
Serving Suggestions for Your Bourbon Banana Bread
This Crock-Pot Bourbon Banana Bread is delightful on its own, but here are some ways to make it even more special:
- Morning Treat: A slice with your favorite coffee or tea makes for a luxurious breakfast or brunch.
- Dessert Extravaganza: Warm slices served with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and an extra drizzle of the bourbon glaze (or a caramel sauce!) are pure indulgence.
- Afternoon Pick-Me-Up: Enjoy a slice as a satisfying snack to conquer that midday slump.
- Gift Idea: Wrap a beautifully glazed loaf in festive packaging for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Variations & Customizations
Feel free to get creative with your Crock-Pot Bourbon Banana Bread:
- Chocolate Chips: Stir in ½ cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon for a more complex spice profile.
- Different Nuts: If pecans aren’t your favorite, try walnuts, almonds, or even a mix of different nuts.
- Dried Fruits: Dried cranberries or chopped dates could add another layer of sweetness and texture.
- Orange Zest: A little orange zest can brighten the flavors and add a subtle citrus note that complements the bourbon beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crock-Pot Bourbon Banana Bread
Can I make this recipe without bourbon?
Yes, absolutely! While bourbon adds a unique depth, you can substitute it with an equal amount of milk, orange juice, or even a non-alcoholic bourbon flavoring for a similar taste profile without the alcohol.
How do I store leftover banana bread?
Store the banana bread tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week.
Can I freeze Crock-Pot Bourbon Banana Bread?
Yes, this bread freezes beautifully! Once completely cooled, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving. You can glaze it after thawing, or before freezing.
My slow cooker runs hot/cold; how do I adjust cooking time?
Slow cookers vary. If yours tends to cook hotter, check the bread earlier (e.g., at 1 hour 15 minutes). If it cooks colder, it might need an extra 15-30 minutes. Always rely on the toothpick test for accuracy.
Can I use a different size slow cooker?
This recipe is typically suited for a 6-quart oval or round slow cooker. If using a smaller or larger slow cooker, you may need to adjust the cooking time and potentially the quantity of ingredients to avoid overflowing or having a very thin loaf.
Explore More Delicious Recipes!
If you’re a fan of our Bourbon Banana Bread, be sure to check out these other fantastic banana bread recipes:
- Classic Banana Bread
- Sour Cream Banana Bread
- Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
- Cake Mix Banana Bread
- Port Wine Banana Bread
- Nutella Banana Bread
And don’t stop there! Discover all of our vegetarian crock-pot recipes and Bisquick Recipes for more easy and delicious meals.
Do you love recipes? Check out our copycat recipes, dessert recipes, and our Crock-Pot Recipes.
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Recipe originally shared on September 7, 2013. Updated September 2020.