A classic banana bread recipe is a must-have for every home baker. This easy, one-bowl recipe yields a moist, flavorful loaf with the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth. Whether you’re looking to use up overripe bananas or simply craving a comforting treat, this banana bread will become your go-to recipe. With a golden-brown crust and a soft, tender crumb, it’s perfect for breakfast, snacking, or even dessert. The best part? It’s simple to make with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Let’s get started on creating the most delicious banana bread you’ll ever taste!
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for extra flavor)
- ¼ cup milk (optional for extra moisture)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional for added texture)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Mash the Bananas – In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. This ensures a naturally sweet and moist texture in the bread.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients – Add the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Stir well until all ingredients are fully combined.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the batter.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the banana bread dense instead of light and fluffy.
- Add Optional Ingredients – If using nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage. These add a delightful crunch or richness to your banana bread.
- Adjust Moisture if Needed – If the batter appears too thick, add a splash of milk to achieve the right consistency.
- Pour into the Pan – Transfer the batter into the greased loaf pan, spreading it evenly for uniform baking.
- Bake to Perfection – Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.
- Cool Before Slicing – Remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
This banana bread is wonderfully soft, packed with banana flavor, and has just the right amount of sweetness. Enjoy it warm with butter or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh for days. Whether you enjoy it as a quick breakfast or an afternoon snack, this homemade banana bread will always be a delightful treat.