Classic Banana Bread Recipe: Moist, Delicious, and Easy to Make
Banana bread is one of the most beloved baked treats, perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. It’s a great way to use up ripe bananas, and it fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma while baking. Soft, moist, and packed with flavor, this banana bread recipe is simple enough for beginners yet satisfying enough for experienced bakers.
Whether you enjoy it plain, with a pat of butter, or paired with your morning coffee, banana bread never disappoints. Let’s walk through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and some tips to make your banana bread turn out perfect every time.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for one standard loaf:
- 3 medium ripe bananas (the riper, the better – they should have brown spots)
- 1/3 cup melted butter (unsalted is best)
- 3/4 cup sugar (you can use white, brown, or a mix for richer flavor)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Optional Add-ins (for extra flavor):
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- A sprinkle of cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your banana bread:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
- In a large mixing bowl, peel and mash the bananas using a fork until smooth.
- The bananas should look creamy with small chunks for texture.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
- Stir in the melted butter until well combined.
- Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
- Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the banana mixture. Stir gently.
- Slowly fold in the flour until just combined. Do not overmix – this helps keep the bread soft.
Step 5: Add Extras (Optional)
- Gently fold in nuts, chocolate chips, or cinnamon if you’re using them.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Banana Bread
- Use very ripe bananas – the darker the peel, the sweeter and more flavorful the bread.
- Don’t overmix – gently fold ingredients to avoid dense bread.
- Check early – ovens vary, so start checking at the 50-minute mark.
- Store properly – wrap in plastic wrap or foil and keep at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Freeze for later – banana bread freezes well for up to 3 months. Wrap slices individually for quick snacks.
Final Thoughts
Banana bread is a timeless recipe that anyone can master. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can bake a loaf that’s soft, moist, and full of flavor. Try it plain, add your favorite mix-ins, or toast a slice with butter for a cozy treat.
Once you’ve made it, you’ll understand why banana bread is a household favorite around the world! 🍌🍞