Banana Bread is the ultimate solution for those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. With a tender crumb, moist texture, and rich banana flavor, it’s a classic baked treat that’s great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this foolproof recipe delivers perfect banana bread every time. Plus, it takes just about an hour from start to finish, making it a quick and easy favorite for any day of the week.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (or granulated sugar)
- 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional, for mix-ins)
Preparation
- Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. - Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. A few small lumps are fine for added texture. - Add Wet Ingredients
Stir in the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until fully combined. - Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). - Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture. Stir gently until just combined—avoid overmixing, as this can make the bread dense. - Add Mix-Ins (Optional)
If using walnuts or chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage. - Pour into Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. - Bake
Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top begins to brown too quickly, tent it with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking. - Cool and Serve
Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Variation
- Banana Nut Bread: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a classic banana nut loaf.
- Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
- Banana Coconut Bread: Mix in 1/4 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical flavor.
- Gluten-Free Banana Bread: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Cooking Note
For extra flavor, you can sprinkle a bit of brown sugar on top of the batter before baking, creating a caramelized, slightly crunchy crust. If you have time, let the batter rest for 10-15 minutes before baking to improve the bread’s texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve banana bread warm with a spread of butter or cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. It also makes a great base for French toast if you have leftover slices.
Tips
- Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the ingredients until just combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
- Storage: Store banana bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. It also freezes well—wrap slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 180mg
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, thaw frozen bananas and drain any excess liquid before mashing and adding them to the batter.
2. How can I make banana bread healthier?
Substitute some or all of the butter with applesauce, use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, or reduce the sugar by a quarter for a lighter version.
3. Why is my banana bread dry?
Dry banana bread can result from overmixing or overbaking. Be sure to check for doneness around the 50-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
4. Can I make muffins with this batter?
Yes! Divide the batter evenly into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Conclusion
This Banana Bread recipe is a tried-and-true favorite that’s perfect for using up ripe bananas. With a moist, tender crumb and a naturally sweet banana flavor, it’s a comforting treat that’s simple to make. Whether you’re enjoying it plain or with a few add-ins, this classic Banana Bread is a delicious way to make any day a little sweeter. Enjoy a slice with your favorite coffee or tea for the perfect snack!