Banana bread is one of those timeless recipes that never fails to bring comfort to the table. Whether you’re trying to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter or looking for a sweet treat to enjoy with your morning coffee, this banana bread recipe is perfect for any occasion.
This recipe stands out because it’s incredibly moist, requires simple ingredients, and doesn’t need a mixer. You can mix everything in one bowl, making it quick, easy, and mess-free. Plus, it’s versatile—you can customize it with add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or warm spices!
Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 50-60 min | Total Time: 1h10 min
Servings: 8 slices
Calories per slice: ~210 kcal
Essential Ingredients for the Best Banana Bread
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1/3 cup melted butter (unsalted or salted)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Banana Bread
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Coat a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Batter
In a mixing bowl, use a fork to mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Stir in the melted butter until well combined.
3. Add Dry Ingredients
Mix in the baking soda and salt. Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, and stir to combine.
4. Incorporate the Flour
Gradually add the flour to the banana mixture. Mix just until the batter comes together; avoid overmixing.
5. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve
Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Expert Tips for Making Moist & Delicious Banana Bread
- Use very ripe bananas: The darker, the better! Overripe bananas give the best flavor and moisture.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Stir until just combined to keep the bread soft and fluffy.
- Check for doneness early: Oven temperatures vary, so start checking at 50 minutes.
- Store properly: Wrap in plastic wrap or keep in an airtight container to stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature.
Banana Bread Variations: Custom Flavors & Add-ins
- Chocolate Chips: Add 1/2 cup for a sweeter treat.
- Nuts: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra touch of warmth.
- Healthier Version: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and use honey instead of sugar.
Best Ways to Serve & Enjoy Banana Bread
- With Butter & Honey: Spread a little butter and drizzle honey on top.
- Toasted with Peanut Butter: A delicious protein-packed snack.
- With a Cup of Coffee or Tea: The perfect breakfast or afternoon treat.
- As a Dessert: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Banana Bread FAQ: Common Questions & Expert Answers
1. Can I use frozen bananas in this recipe?
Yes! Just thaw them first and drain any extra liquid before mashing.
2. How can I keep my banana bread moist?
Use very ripe bananas, don’t overmix the batter, and store it in an airtight container.
3. Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
4. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use 1/2 cup of sugar instead of 3/4 cup, or substitute it with honey or maple syrup.
5. How long does banana bread last?
At room temperature, it stays fresh for 3 days. In the fridge, up to 1 week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. (FoodSafety)
6. Why did my banana bread collapse in the middle?
This can happen if the bread is underbaked or if the batter was overmixed, trapping too much air.
Banana Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 tsp baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Batter – In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter until well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients – Mix in the baking soda and salt. Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, then stir to combine.
- Incorporate the Flour – Gradually add the flour and mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread soft and fluffy.
- Bake – Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve – Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Use Very Ripe Bananas: The riper, the better! Overripe bananas with dark spots are perfect for this recipe as they provide the best flavor and moisture.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Stir just until the ingredients are combined to keep the banana bread light and fluffy.
- Check for Doneness Early: Oven temperatures vary, so start checking your banana bread at the 50-minute mark. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Storage Tips: Store your banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
- Customizing Your Banana Bread: Feel free to add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to make it your own.
- Healthier Version: For a healthier twist, swap half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.
Enjoy Your Homemade Banana Bread
Banana bread is truly a versatile and comforting treat that never goes out of style. It’s the perfect way to use up overripe bananas, and its rich, moist texture makes it a delightful snack or breakfast option. Whether you prefer your banana bread plain or love to get creative with add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or warm spices, this banana bread recipe offers endless possibilities to suit every taste. It’s easy to make, and its simple ingredients are staples you probably already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a brunch with friends, or just a quiet afternoon treat, this banana bread recipe will surely become a favorite in your household. So go ahead, bake a loaf, and enjoy the delicious aroma of freshly made banana bread filling your home!
For more breakfast ideas, visit our [Breakfast category].
Last updated: [March 8, 2025].