Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Classic Banana Bread is a beloved staple for good reason: it’s simple to make, wonderfully moist, and packed with naturally sweet banana flavor. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert, this bread transforms overripe bananas into a comforting loaf that everyone enjoys. Its tender crumb and subtle sweetness make it delicious on its own, though it also pairs beautifully with butter, cream cheese, or a drizzle of honey. Best of all, it requires basic pantry ingredients and comes together quickly, making it an ideal recipe for both novice and seasoned bakers. Whether you enjoy it warm from the oven or the next day when the flavors deepen, Banana Bread remains one of those timeless recipes you’ll return to again and again.
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Classic Banana Bread – Moist, Sweet, and Timeless
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (10 slices)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A moist and tender banana bread made with ripe bananas, a hint of vanilla, and just the right amount of sweetness — a timeless classic perfect for breakfast or snacking.
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 very ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash bananas until smooth. Stir in melted butter.
- Mix in sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Sprinkle baking soda and salt over mixture, then stir in flour until just incorporated. Do not overmix.
- Pour batter into prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips.
- Overripe bananas with lots of brown spots make the best banana bread.
- Store wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Each ingredient contributes to the moist texture and signature flavor of this classic loaf.
Ripe bananas are the star, providing natural sweetness and moisture while giving the bread its signature flavor.
All-purpose flour forms the base, creating structure while keeping the bread tender.
Granulated sugar adds sweetness and balances the banana flavor.
Brown sugar deepens the flavor with a caramel-like note and helps maintain moisture.
Baking soda is the leavening agent, ensuring the bread rises and stays light.
Salt enhances sweetness and balances flavors.
Cinnamon adds warmth and subtle spice, complementing the bananas.
Eggs bind the batter together and contribute to a tender crumb.
Unsalted butter provides richness, creating a moist and flavorful loaf.
Vanilla extract rounds out the flavors with a touch of aromatic sweetness.
Optional mix-ins such as walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips add texture and variety.
Directions
Preheat the oven and grease a standard loaf pan. In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Stir in melted butter, then whisk in granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender. If using nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pan for several minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 1 standard loaf, about 10 slices. Preparation takes 15 minutes, and baking requires 55–65 minutes. The total time is around 1 hour and 20 minutes, including cooling.
Storage/reheating
Store banana bread tightly wrapped or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to restore freshness.
Variations and Customizations
Nutty Banana Bread
Fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for crunch and nutty richness.
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
Add semisweet or dark chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
Coconut Banana Bread
Mix in shredded coconut for tropical flavor.
Peanut Butter Banana Bread
Swirl peanut butter into the batter for a nutty, indulgent loaf.
Spiced Banana Bread
Enhance the batter with nutmeg, ginger, or cloves for a warmly spiced version.
Healthy Banana Bread
Use whole wheat flour and replace some sugar with honey or maple syrup.
FAQs
How ripe should bananas be for banana bread?
The bananas should be very ripe, with plenty of brown spots for maximum sweetness and moisture.
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
Do I need a mixer for this recipe?
No, banana bread can be mixed easily by hand with a whisk and spatula.
Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes, divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake for 20–25 minutes.
How do I know when banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, you can cut back slightly without affecting texture, though the bread will be less sweet.
Why is my banana bread dense?
Overmixing the batter can make the bread dense. Mix just until combined.
Conclusion
Classic Banana Bread is a tried-and-true recipe that delivers comfort and flavor with every slice. Moist, sweet, and perfectly spiced, it’s a versatile loaf that can be enjoyed plain or dressed up with your favorite mix-ins. Simple to prepare and made with pantry staples, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep on hand for whenever you have overripe bananas. Whether served fresh from the oven or the next day when the flavors have deepened, this banana bread is a timeless favorite that never disappoints.
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