Banana Bread Recipe

Name: 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

Savor the warm, comforting aroma of homemade Banana Bread that’s perfectly moist and bursting with flavor. This easy-to-follow recipe transforms overripe bananas into a delightful treat ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. With simple ingredients and quick prep time, you’ll have a delicious loaf that rivals any bakery. Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or warm it up with butter for an extra special touch!

Created by

Harper Collins

Last updated on 2025-11-26T07:54:53.435Z

This Banana Bread Recipe has been a beloved staple in my family for years. It’s the perfect way to use up overripe bananas and creates a delightful treat that's moist and flavorful.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Easy to make with just a few ingredients.
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Moist and flavorful, rivals bakery versions.

      

The Benefits of Using Ripe Bananas

Using overripe bananas in your banana bread recipe not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the moistness of the bread. The natural sugars in ripe bananas caramelize during baking, providing a rich sweetness that is hard to replicate with sugar alone. This means you'll get a loaf that is not only delicious but also provides a healthier alternative to traditional sweeteners.

Additionally, incorporating ripe bananas into your baking is a fantastic way to minimize food waste. Instead of tossing away those brown-speckled bananas, you can transform them into a scrumptious treat that your whole family will enjoy. It's a simple trick that not only benefits your taste buds but also the planet.

Tips for Perfect Banana Bread

For the best results, make sure to use ripe bananas that have a lot of brown spots or are mostly brown. This indicates that they are very sweet and will yield optimal flavor. If you find yourself short on time, you can also speed up the ripening process by placing the bananas in a paper bag with an apple or another ripe banana; the ethylene gas will enhance ripening.

Another tip is to avoid over-mixing your batter. Once you add the flour, mix just until everything is combined. This helps prevent the bread from becoming tough, ensuring it stays tender and moist. Remember, a few lumps are perfectly acceptable!

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. For breakfast, enjoy a warm slice with a smear of butter or your favorite nut butter for added protein. A dash of cinnamon can also elevate the flavors beautifully and make it feel indulgent without being overly sweet.

For those who crave a sweet treat later in the day, banana bread is delightful on its own, or you can dress it up with toppings. Consider adding fresh slices of fruit like strawberries or a dollop of yogurt. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for the perfect afternoon snack.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before getting started:

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

Ensure all ingredients are measured and ready for use.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your banana bread:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas and mix in melted butter. Stir in baking soda and salt. Add sugar, egg, and vanilla, and mix well. Finally, stir in the flour until just incorporated.

Bake

Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and serve

Remove from oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Once your banana bread is cool, slice and enjoy!

Storing Banana Bread

To keep your banana bread fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its life, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer, allowing you to enjoy a slice whenever the craving strikes.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen banana bread, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds. Reheating it will restore its warmth and texture, making it taste as fresh as when you first baked it.

Customizing Your Banana Bread

There are endless opportunities to customize your banana bread according to your taste preferences. Consider adding a handful of chopped nuts for an added crunch, or mix in dark chocolate chips for a decadent twist. If you're a fan of dried fruits, raisins or cranberries can blend perfectly with the banana flavor.

For a healthier take, you can substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for extra fiber, or use less sugar to cater to your dietary needs. Each variation allows you to make the recipe your own while still enjoying the comforts of homemade banana bread.

Health Benefits of Banana Bread

Homemade banana bread can offer several health benefits. Bananas are rich in potassium, which is essential for heart health and proper muscle function. They also provide dietary fiber, which aids digestion and can help regulate blood sugar levels.

When made with whole ingredients and minimal added sugars, banana bread can be a nutritious snack or breakfast option. Pairing it with protein-rich toppings like yogurt can further enhance its nutritional profile, making it a well-rounded choice for any time of day.

Questions About Recipes

→ What can I use instead of sugar?

You can substitute with honey or maple syrup, but keep in mind that adjustments may need to be made to the liquid ingredients.