Banana Bread with Soft Crumb

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in this moist and fluffy banana bread, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.

Imogen Walker

Created by

Imogen Walker

Last updated on 2025-12-31T16:58:11.174Z

This banana bread recipe is a family favorite, passed down through generations. The secret to its soft crumb lies in using ripe bananas and a touch of sour cream, ensuring every slice is moist and flavorful. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Moist texture that melts in your mouth
  • Rich banana flavor with a hint of vanilla
  • Perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat any time of day

A Classic Recipe with a Twist

Banana bread is a beloved classic that has found its way into kitchens around the world. This recipe adds a delightful twist with its soft crumb and irresistible aroma, making it a perfect addition to your breakfast table or afternoon snack. The combination of ripe bananas and a hint of vanilla creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and indulgent.

What sets this banana bread apart is its moist texture, achieved by using melted butter and perfectly ripe bananas. The natural sweetness of the bananas allows you to reduce the amount of added sugar, making this treat a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor. Each bite melts in your mouth, leaving you craving more.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re looking to use up overripe bananas or simply want to prepare a delicious treat, this banana bread recipe fits the bill. It's versatile enough to serve at breakfast, as a midday snack, or even as a dessert. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea, and you have an unbeatable combination that will delight your taste buds.

This banana bread also makes for a thoughtful gift. Wrap it up in parchment paper and a ribbon, and you have a homemade present that is sure to bring joy to friends and family. It's an excellent way to show someone you care, especially during the holidays or special occasions.

Tips for the Best Banana Bread

To ensure your banana bread turns out perfectly every time, use very ripe bananas. The darker the skin, the sweeter and more flavorful the bananas will be. You can even freeze overripe bananas for later use, making this recipe a convenient option for when you have a banana surplus.

Additionally, be careful not to overmix the batter once you add the flour. Overmixing can lead to a denser loaf, which is not what you want for a light and fluffy banana bread. Gently folding the ingredients ensures that the bread rises beautifully and maintains its soft crumb.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your banana bread.

Banana Bread 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

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious banana bread.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter, then mix in the baking soda and salt.

Add Sugar and Egg

Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Incorporate Flour

Gently fold in the flour until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.

Bake the Bread

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

Cool and Serve

Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade banana bread with a spread of butter or your favorite jam!

Storing Your Banana Bread

To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help retain moisture and prevent it from drying out. If you plan to keep it for more than a few days, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in the refrigerator.

For longer storage, banana bread freezes exceptionally well. Slice it before freezing, so you can easily grab a piece whenever a craving strikes. Just make sure to wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this banana bread recipe by adding your favorite mix-ins. Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, add a delightful crunch, while chocolate chips bring an extra layer of sweetness. Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can also enhance the flavor and texture.

For a more tropical twist, consider adding shredded coconut or a splash of pineapple juice. These variations not only elevate the taste but also provide a unique twist on the traditional recipe that will impress your family and friends.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?

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

→ How can I tell when the banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is done.

Banana Bread with Soft Crumb

Delight in this moist and fluffy banana bread, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration60 minutes
Overall Time75 minutes

Created by: Imogen Walker

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 1 loaf

What You'll Need

Banana Bread Ingredients

  1. 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  2. 1/3 cup melted butter
  3. 1 teaspoon baking soda
  4. Pinch of salt
  5. 3/4 cup sugar
  6. 1 large egg, beaten
  7. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  8. 1 cup all-purpose flour

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.

Step 02

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter, then mix in the baking soda and salt.

Step 03

Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 04

Gently fold in the flour until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 05

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

Step 06

Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 200 kcal
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 15g
  • Protein: 3g