Banana Bread

Banana bread is a classic, comforting recipe that turns overripe bananas into a moist, tender loaf. With a simple list of pantry ingredients and minimal preparation, it’s a go-to baked good that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an anytime snack. This banana bread is rich in flavor, soft in texture, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Great use of ripe bananas: Perfect for using bananas that are too soft to eat but too good to waste.

• Easy to make: Requires only one bowl and basic ingredients found in most kitchens.

• Moist and flavorful: Soft, tender, and naturally sweet from the bananas.

• Customizable: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices to make it your own.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour

• Baking soda

• Salt

• Unsalted butter

• Brown sugar or granulated sugar

• Eggs

• Overripe bananas, mashed

• Vanilla extract

• Optional add-ins: chopped walnuts, chocolate chips, cinnamon

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

2. Mash the bananas in a large bowl until smooth. Stir in the melted butter.

3. Add eggs and sugar: Beat in the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.

4. Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

5. Combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix.

6. Fold in optional add-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or spices if using.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.

8. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10 slices

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 55–65 minutes

Variations

• Banana nut bread: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.

• Chocolate banana bread: Mix in ½ cup chocolate chips for a sweet twist.

• Spiced banana bread: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor.

• Whole wheat version: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.

• Vegan option: Use plant-based butter, a flax egg, and a dairy-free sweetener alternative.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store banana bread tightly wrapped or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• Refrigeration: Can be refrigerated for up to 1 week.

• Freezing: Wrap the cooled loaf or slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

• Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or toast lightly.

FAQs

How ripe should bananas be for banana bread?

Bananas should be very ripe with brown spots or almost entirely brown for the best flavor and moisture.

Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using in the batter.

What can I use instead of butter?

You can substitute melted coconut oil, vegetable oil, or even applesauce for a lower-fat version.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar by up to ¼ cup without compromising texture too much.

Can I make banana bread muffins instead?

Yes. Pour the batter into muffin tins and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes.

Why did my banana bread sink in the middle?

Overmixing, underbaking, or too much liquid can cause the center to sink. Check doneness with a toothpick.

Is banana bread supposed to be moist?

Yes, banana bread should be soft and moist. Avoid overbaking to maintain that texture.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double it and bake in two loaf pans. Adjust baking time as needed.

What’s the best way to mash bananas?

Use a fork, potato masher, or hand mixer to mash bananas until smooth with a few small lumps.

Conclusion

This banana bread recipe is a classic for a reason—easy, delicious, and a wonderful way to use up ripe bananas. Whether you keep it simple or add your favorite mix-ins, it’s a dependable treat that never disappoints. Enjoy it fresh from the oven, toasted with butter, or packed for a snack on the go.