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 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Savor the comforting aroma of freshly baked banana bread that’s moist, flavorful, and easy to make. This delightful recipe combines ripe bananas with warm spices, creating a deliciously sweet treat perfect for breakfast or a snack. Whether you enjoy it plain or with nuts and chocolate chips, this banana bread will quickly become a household favorite.

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2025-12-01T09:23:52.788Z

This banana bread is not just a recipe; it's a family tradition that brings warmth and joy to every home.

The Joy of Homemade Banana Bread

There's something magical about the process of baking banana bread at home. The simple act of mashing ripe bananas and combining them with basic pantry staples transforms your kitchen into a warm, inviting haven. The aroma that fills the air as the bread bakes is not just comforting; it's nostalgic. For many, it's a cherished memory of sharing slices of banana bread with family and friends during cozy gatherings or quiet mornings. Homemade banana bread is more than just a recipe; it's an experience that brings people together.

One of the best aspects of banana bread is its versatility. Whether you prefer it plain, studded with nuts, or loaded with chocolate chips, there’s a variation to suit every palate. Adding ingredients like walnuts or semi-sweet chocolate chips can elevate the flavor profile, creating a delightful contrast that adds texture and richness to each bite. You can also experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or allspice, to customize it to your taste. The possibilities are endless, making this a recipe you'll love to come back to again and again.

Perfecting Your Banana Bread

Using ripe bananas is key to achieving the best flavor and moisture in your banana bread. Look for bananas that are heavily speckled with brown spots, as they are the sweetest and easiest to mash. If you find yourself with unripe bananas, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag with an apple or by baking them at a low temperature until they're soft. No matter how you get there, the squishier the banana, the better your bread will taste.

It's also important to avoid overmixing once you add the flour. To ensure your banana bread remains tender and soft, mix until the ingredients are just combined. A few small lumps are perfectly fine! Overmixing can activate gluten in the flour, leading to a denser loaf rather than the desired light and fluffy texture. Additionally, letting the batter rest for a few minutes before pouring it into the pan can help create a better crumb structure in the baked loaf.

Ingredients

Basic 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 teaspoon cinnamon
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

These ingredients combine to create a wonderfully moist banana bread!

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix the ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with the mashed bananas. Mix well.

Add remaining ingredients

Stir in the baking soda and salt. Mix in the sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and spices. Finally, add the flour and mix until just blended.

Bake

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

Cool and serve

Let the banana bread cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your banana bread warm or toasted!

Storage Tips for Banana Bread

Once your banana bread has cooled, proper storage is essential to keep it fresh and delicious. Store the bread at room temperature in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. Consumed within a few days, it maintains its flavor and moisture. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. Properly stored, banana bread can last up to three months in the freezer, allowing you to enjoy a slice whenever the craving hits.

To thaw frozen banana bread, simply remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few hours. For a quicker option, you can microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds, just enough to warm them through. If you enjoy banana bread warm, this method is fantastic for bringing it back to life, preserving its moist texture and flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

Banana bread is not only delicious on its own but also exceptionally versatile when it comes to pairing. Consider serving it with a pat of butter or a spread of cream cheese for added richness. For those looking to elevate their snack, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup can enhance the natural sweetness of the bread. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds an extra layer of flavor that many will appreciate.

If you're enjoying banana bread for breakfast, why not pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea? The robust flavors of a well-brewed beverage complement the sweetness of the bread, creating a satisfying morning ritual. For a more indulgent treat, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert; this delightful combination is sure to impress anyone who has the pleasure of tasting it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just thaw and mash them before using.

→ How should I store banana bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.