Easy Homemade Banana Bread Recipe

Introduction

Banana bread is a classic, comforting treat that’s perfect for using up ripe bananas. This moist and flavorful loaf is easy to make and ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.

A loaf of banana bread with a golden-brown crust sits on a wooden board placed over a light gray cloth on a white marbled surface. The bread is sliced to show two pieces in front, revealing a soft, moist interior speckled with small dark bits of banana and grain. To the left is a small clear glass bowl with thick yellow butter, and behind the bread, there is a white bowl filled with white flour and two ripe yellow bananas with brown spots, all on the white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 3 ripe bananas (the darker and squishier, the better)
  • 1/3 cup melted butter (salted or unsalted)
  • 3/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • A pinch of salt
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
  2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
  3. Step 3: Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas.
  4. Step 4: Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  5. Step 5: Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture, then gently mix in the flour until just incorporated.
  6. Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.
  7. Step 7: Bake for 60–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Step 8: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips & Variations

  • For extra flavor, add 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter.
  • You can substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
  • If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar slightly or use brown sugar for a deeper taste.
  • Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice note.

Storage

Store banana bread tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap well and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in a toaster or microwave for a warm, fresh taste.

How to Serve

A loaf of banana bread sits on a wooden board placed over a gray cloth on a white marbled surface. The bread has a golden-brown crust with a slightly cracked, textured top and a moist, speckled interior. Two slices are cut and laid flat in front of the loaf, showing the light tan color with small darker flecks throughout. To the left side of the board is a small clear glass bowl filled with butter, and behind the bread on the right side, a white bowl holds a mound of flour, with two ripe yellow bananas beside it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for banana bread?

Yes, frozen bananas work great. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing for best results.

How do I know when banana bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick in the center of the loaf—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bread is done baking.

Print

Easy Homemade Banana Bread Recipe

This classic banana bread recipe offers a moist, flavorful loaf made with ripe bananas, melted butter, and a touch of vanilla. Perfect as a breakfast treat or snack, this easy-to-make bread combines simple ingredients to create a comforting and delicious baked good with a subtle sweetness and tender crumb.

  • Author: Bella
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf (8 slices) 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Banana Bread Ingredients

  • 3 ripe bananas (the darker and squishier, the better)
  • 1/3 cup melted butter (salted or unsalted)
  • 3/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • a pinch of salt
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature when your batter is ready.
  2. Prepare Bananas and Butter: In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth but still slightly chunky. Stir in the melted butter until well combined.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the banana-butter mixture. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
  4. Add Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture, then gently stir in the all-purpose flour. Mix just until incorporated to keep the bread tender; avoid overmixing.
  5. Prepare Baking Tin: Grease a 4×8 inch loaf pan lightly with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
  6. Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Ensure bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor.
  • Adjust sugar to taste if you prefer a sweeter or less sweet bread.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep the bread light and tender.
  • Check doneness starting at 55 minutes to prevent overbaking.
  • Use a loaf pan approximately 4×8 inches for best results.
  • Add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips can be included for variation.

Keywords: banana bread, classic banana bread, homemade banana bread, easy banana bread, baked banana loaf

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