Unicorn Bread with Sprinkles is a delightful way to turn traditional banana bread into a magical, colorful treat. This recipe starts with a moist banana bread base made with mashed ripe bananas, butter, sugar, and eggs. Once the batter is mixed, it's divided and tinted with pink, purple, and neon green gel food coloring, creating a stunning visual effect when layered and baked. Rainbow sprinkles are added for a fun and festive touch, making this bread perfect for parties, themed gatherings, or simply as a cheerful dessert.
INGREDIENTS
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups
- Baking soda: 1 tsp
- Kosher salt: 1/2 tsp
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup
- Unsalted butter (room temperature): 1/2 cup
- Large eggs: 2
- Ripe bananas (mashed): 3
- Pink, purple, neon green gel food coloring: As desired
- Rainbow sprinkles: 1/2 cup, plus more for topping
- Confectioners' sugar: 2 cups
- Milk: 3 tbsp
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 350°F and spray a 9x5-inch loaf pan with non-stick spray.
- Step 2:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Step 3:
- In a separate bowl, beat the sugar and butter together until creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the mashed bananas.
- Step 4:
- Combine the wet and dry mixtures until just combined. Divide the batter into three bowls and use pink, purple, and neon green gel food coloring to tint each portion.
- Step 5:
- Layer the colored batters into the loaf pan by scooping dollops of each color, adding rainbow sprinkles between layers.
- Step 6:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Step 7:
- Let the bread cool completely before drizzling with icing made from confectioners' sugar and milk. Top with additional rainbow sprinkles.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For a special touch, warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Helpful Notes
- Use gel food coloring for vibrant colors without altering the batter's consistency.
- Ensure bananas are fully mashed for a smoother batter.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Olivia suggests using high-quality food coloring for the best color payoff and even mixing.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for an extra flavor dimension.
Bright, Fun, and Perfectly Whimsical
Unicorn Bread with Sprinkles offers a playful take on traditional banana bread with a colorful twist.
Colorful Layers and Sweet Icing
With its vibrant colors, tender crumb, and sweet icing drizzle, this bread is a magical treat for all ages.
FAQs
Can I make this bread without food coloring?
Yes, you can skip the coloring for a classic banana bread with sprinkles.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
What can I substitute for rainbow sprinkles?
You can use chocolate chips or chopped nuts for a different twist.
Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Substituting almond flour will change the texture but can be used for a gluten-free option.