Easy Banana Bread Recipe

Name: Easy Banana Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 3/4 cup sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This Easy Banana Bread Recipe is perfect for using up overripe bananas and creates a moist, delicious loaf that everyone will love.

Created by

Jenna Rowland

Last updated on 2025-12-31T16:22:06.399Z

This banana bread recipe is a family favorite that combines simplicity with deliciousness. The sweet aroma of bananas fills your kitchen as it bakes, making it the perfect treat for breakfast or a snack.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and flavorful with every slice
Easy to make with minimal ingredients
Versatile: add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor

      

The Perfect Use for Overripe Bananas

Banana bread is a classic recipe that provides the perfect solution for those overripe bananas sitting on your countertop. Instead of tossing them out, transforming them into a delicious loaf is not only economical but also incredibly satisfying. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas enhances the flavor of the bread, making it a delightful treat for breakfast or as a snack any time of the day.

Using overripe bananas in baking not only minimizes food waste but also ensures that your banana bread is moist and flavorful. As the bananas ripen, their starches convert into sugars, resulting in a richer taste. So, don’t hesitate to let your bananas turn brown; they’re about to become the star ingredient in a mouthwatering banana bread.

Customizing Your Banana Bread

One of the best things about this easy banana bread recipe is its versatility. You can customize it to suit your taste preferences by adding various mix-ins. For example, walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch, while chocolate chips provide a sweet surprise in every bite. Whether you prefer nuts, chocolate, or even dried fruits like cranberries, feel free to get creative with your banana bread.

Additionally, you can experiment with spices to enhance the flavor profile. A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth, making your banana bread even more inviting. For those looking for a healthier option, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or adding a sprinkle of oats for added texture.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

After baking, it's important to store your banana bread properly to maintain its freshness. Allow the loaf to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help keep it moist and prevent it from drying out. For longer storage, you can freeze slices of banana bread, which makes it convenient to enjoy a piece whenever you like.

When it comes to serving, banana bread is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it further with toppings. Spread a little butter or cream cheese on a warm slice for an extra indulgent treat. Pair it with your favorite coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack, or enjoy it as a quick breakfast on busy mornings.

Ingredients

For Banana Bread

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
3/4 cup sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour

Mix all the ingredients together for a delicious loaf of banana bread!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork. Stir in the melted butter, baking soda, and salt. Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Finally, add the flour and mix until just combined.

Pour into Loaf Pan

Pour the banana bread batter into a greased 4x8 inch loaf pan.

Bake

Bake for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Enjoy your homemade banana bread!

Tips for the Best Banana Bread

To achieve the best banana bread, ensure that your bananas are very ripe. The more brown spots they have, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. If you don’t have ripe bananas on hand, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag, which traps the ethylene gas they emit and helps them ripen faster.

Another key tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once the flour is added. Mixing just until combined will result in a tender loaf, while overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Remember, a few lumps are perfectly fine!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your banana bread comes out too dense, it might be due to overmixing or using too much flour. Make sure to measure your flour correctly; spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife. On the other hand, if your bread is too dry, consider adding a tablespoon or two of milk or yogurt to the batter for added moisture.

If you notice that the top of your banana bread is browning too quickly while baking, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil halfway through the baking time. This will help prevent the bread from overbaking while ensuring that it cooks evenly throughout.

Healthier Alternatives

For those looking to make a healthier version of banana bread, consider using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugar. This not only reduces the sugar content but also adds a unique flavor to your bread. Additionally, you can substitute some of the butter with applesauce or Greek yogurt for a lower-fat option.

Incorporating whole grains into your banana bread is another great way to boost its nutritional value. By using whole wheat flour or adding oats, you'll increase the fiber content, making it more filling and beneficial for your health.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw them first and make sure to drain any excess liquid.

→ How do I store banana bread?

Store it wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How can I make banana bread healthier?

You can reduce the sugar or substitute with honey or maple syrup, and use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose.