Morning Maple Panini

by Jenny
(IL)

This deliciously different breakfast treat is a wonderful way to start the day. We serve it at our family brunch on Christmas morning before we gather to open gifts, and it is always a favorite. The tempting combination of flavors creates a lightly sweet change of pace that can be easily put together with a little advance preparation the night before.

2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup evaporated milk
1 egg
1/2 cup butter, melted
1/2 cup + 3 Tablespoons maple syrup, divided
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup + 2 Tablespoons creamy peanut butter
3 medium bananas

Heat oven to 400 degrees F.
Grease or spray bottom only of 9 x 5-inch loaf pan. In a large bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, egg, melted butter, ½ cup maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. Pour into prepared pan; bake 35-45 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean and top is golden brown. Cool in pan for 15 minutes. Run knife around edges; carefully remove to wire rack to cool completely. (Loaf can be prepared, cooled, and covered in advance to speed preparation.)

Meanwhile, combine the peanut butter and 3 Tablespoons maple syrup in small bowl, mixing until thoroughly combined.

When ready to assemble, slice loaf into 12 slices. Spread approximately 2 Tablespoons peanut butter and maple syrup mixture onto half of the slices. Slice bananas into 1/4-inch slices and place on top of spread. Top with second slice from loaf. Repeat with remaining slices.

Spray small indoor grill or panini press with non-stick cooking spray; preheat. Grill panini until top begins to turn golden and crunchy and filling is warm, about two minutes. Remove from grill; cut in half and serve immediately.

6 servings