As we approach week six(!) of lockdown with no imminent sign of being able to socialize, you may well have turned to baking to keep yourself occupied. Perhaps you've been trying your hand at banana bread, like everyone else on your Instagram feed. After all, what better way to use up all those ripe bananas you've been stockpiling?
That said, there are only so many times one can make — and eat — banana bread. So why not show off your new baking skills by trying something different? There's never been a better time to expand your repertoire and make something Mary Berry would be proud of: a classic lemon drizzle cake, chocolate chip cookies, or even a deliciously decadent cinnamon roll.
Ahead, we've pulled together a selection of our favorite non-banana bread baking recipes for you to try. If you think you need to be a pastry chef to pull these off, think again. These recipes are super easy and super quick, perfect for when your sweet tooth is craving a treat. Happy baking!
A lemon drizzle cake is a British Classic. It's also pretty similar to banana bread, in that they're both loaves and involve similar methods and ingredients. If you can make banana bread, you'll definitely be able to nail this bad boy.
Carrot Cake Cupcakes With Cream Cheese Frosting
Carrot cake was the banana bread of World War II. Sugar was rationed so people used the sweetness of carrots as a replacement in recipes. Though we aren't in a war per se, it's a concept that certain people on Twitter like to lean into and let's be honest, baking carrot cake is far more productive than joining in with their noise.
This recipe is a spin on the ultimate home snack. Whether you're watching Tiger King or Too Hot To Handle, you'll need a snack to fuel your six-hour Netflix session. These cookies are sure to satisfy your peckishness.
Is there anything better than a vegan take on a cinnamon roll? Requiring the simplest of ingredients, you'll be able to recreate this easily during quarantine.
We're all missing our local bakery at the moment but with this recipe you'll at least be able to get your blueberry muffin fix.
Sourdough Brownies
Let's move away from the cakes and muffins and focus on something a bit more chocolatey: brownies. Whether you're self-isolating with friends or family, these are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Just because we're taking a break from banana bread, doesn't mean we have to forget about the fruit entirely. Use your ripe bananas to make these delicious, fluffy vegan pancakes instead.
