Easy Banana Bread Recipe

Name: Easy Banana Bread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 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 a delightful way to use overripe bananas. It's moist, flavorful, and incredibly simple to make!

Created by

Imogen Walker

Last updated on 2025-12-31T16:58:16.522Z

This banana bread is not only easy to prepare but also a comforting treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, it’s a family favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Deliciously sweet with hints of vanilla and cinnamon
Easy to customize with nuts or chocolate chips

      

The Perfect Use for Overripe Bananas

Banana bread is one of those magical recipes that can transform overripe bananas into a delicious treat. Instead of tossing those brown bananas in the trash, why not turn them into a warm, comforting loaf? The natural sugars in overripe bananas create a moist texture and rich flavor that make this bread irresistible. It's a great way to reduce food waste while indulging in a homemade delight.

Not only is this recipe perfect for using up bananas, but it also offers a wonderful opportunity to engage in a fun baking project with family or friends. Gather the kids in the kitchen and let them help mash the bananas or stir the batter. Baking together creates lasting memories and instills a love for cooking that can carry into adulthood.

Customizations and Variations

One of the best things about banana bread is its versatility. While the classic recipe is delicious on its own, you can easily customize it to suit your taste. Consider adding a half cup of chopped nuts for a delightful crunch or some chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. You can also swap out the vanilla extract for almond extract to give it a unique twist.

If you want to incorporate some healthy elements, try adding a scoop of oats or a sprinkle of flaxseed. These ingredients not only enhance the nutritional profile but also add interesting textures. Feel free to experiment with spices as well—cinnamon and nutmeg pair beautifully with banana and can elevate your loaf to new heights.

Storing Your Banana Bread

Once your banana bread has cooled, it's important to store it properly to maintain its moistness and flavor. Wrap the loaf in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh for a longer period, consider freezing it. Slice the bread into pieces, wrap each slice individually, and store them in an airtight container in the freezer. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever the craving strikes!

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen banana bread, simply remove a slice and let it thaw at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a quick warm-up. The delightful aroma of freshly baked banana bread will fill your kitchen once again, making it feel like a special occasion every time you enjoy it.

Ingredients

For the 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

Make sure your bananas are well-ripened for the best flavor!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

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

Pour and Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade banana bread warm or at room temperature!

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results, make sure your bananas are truly overripe—look for bananas that are brown and spotty. The more ripe the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your banana bread will be. Additionally, avoid overmixing the batter; mix until just combined to ensure a light and fluffy loaf.

Using room temperature ingredients can also enhance the texture of your banana bread. If you forgot to take your egg out of the fridge, simply place it in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes to bring it to the right temperature.

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread is delightful on its own, but it can also be enhanced with various toppings. Consider spreading a layer of butter or cream cheese on a warm slice for extra richness. For a gourmet touch, drizzle some honey or maple syrup on top for a sweet finish.

Pair your banana bread with a cup of coffee or tea for the perfect afternoon snack. It can also serve as a delicious breakfast option or a satisfying dessert. With its comforting flavors, banana bread is sure to be a hit among family and friends.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

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

→ How do I know when the banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the bread is fully baked.

→ Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?

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

→ How should I store leftover banana bread?

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