Your go-to guide for the perfect banana bread easy, delicious, and made with ripe bananas.
Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread Recipe
Banana bread is more than just a treat it’s comfort in every bite. This banana bread recipe is simple, foolproof, and packed with natural sweetness from ripe bananas. It’s moist, tender, and perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, this recipe delivers consistent results every time.
And here’s the best part: it’s a great way to use up overripe bananas. Instead of tossing them, turn them into a golden, flavorful loaf that everyone will love.
Quick Recipe Overview : Banana Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50–60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5–15 minutes
- Serving Size: 1 loaf (8–10 slices)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Note: Can be made gluten-free with a substitute flour (see tips below)
What Makes This Banana Bread So Good?
- Moist and fluffy texture from ripe bananas
- Naturally sweet—no need for extra sugar
- No fancy equipment required
- Great for using overripe bananas
- Customizable with nuts, chocolate chips, or spices
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Banana Bread Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make the best banana bread:Â
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ripe bananas (spotty and dark) | 3–4 |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Granulated sugar | ½ cup |
| Brown sugar | ¼ cup |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Unsalted butter (melted) | ½ cup |
| Baking soda | 1 tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Optional: Chocolate chips, walnuts, or pecans | ½ cup |
Tip: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
Step-by-Step Instructions for this Banana Bread Recipe
How to Make Banana Bread
Follow these simple steps to make moist, delicious banana bread.
Step 1 – Prepare the Bananas
- Peel 3–4 ripe bananas.
- Mash them in a bowl with a fork or potato masher until smooth.
- Leave a few small lumps for texture, if desired.
Pro Tip: Use bananas that are brown and speckled. They’re naturally sweeter and add moisture.
H3: Step 2 – Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a bowl, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter.
- Let it cool slightly, then mix in the mashed bananas.
- Add 2 eggs and 1 tsp of vanilla extract.
- Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Why it matters: A smooth wet mix ensures even baking and a tender crumb.
Step 3 – Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- Mix until fully combined and no lumps remain.
Baking soda helps the bread rise and gives it a light texture.
Step 4 – Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- Gently fold them together with a spatula.
- Don’t overmix just combine until no flour streaks remain.
- Fold in optional add-ins like chocolate chips or chopped walnuts.
Avoid overmixing it can make the bread dense.
Step 5 – Prepare the Loaf Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray.
- Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Pour the batter into the pan and smooth the top.
Optional: Use a bread loaf pan from Amazon for best results.
Step 6 – Bake the Banana Bread
- Place the pan in the center of the oven.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes.
- Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center.
- If it comes out clean, the bread is done.
- If it’s wet, bake for 5 more minutes and retest.
Oven tip: Ovens vary. Check at 50 minutes to avoid overbaking.
Step 7 – Cool and Serve
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve with butter or enjoy as-is.
Cooling is key, it helps the bread set and makes slicing easier.
How to Store Banana Bread
- Room temperature: Wrap in plastic wrap or foil. Keeps for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic and place in a freezer bag. Keeps for up to 3 months.
- To reheat: Thaw at room temperature or toast slices for a warm treat.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220–250 kcal |
| Protein | 3–4 g |
| Fat | 9–11 g |
| Carbs | 34–38 g |
| Fiber | 1.5–2 g |
| Sugar | 18–20 g |
| Sodium | 160–200 mg |
Values may vary based on ingredients used (e.g., chocolate chips or nuts).
Tips for the Best Banana Bread
- Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and moisture.
- Don’t skip the baking soda—it helps the bread rise.
- Avoid overmixing—this keeps the bread light and fluffy.
- Add-ins? Try walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
- Make it gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Common Questions About Banana Bread
Can I use overripe bananas?
Yes! Overripe bananas are ideal. They’re sweeter and easier to mash.
Can I substitute the flour?
Yes. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Why is my banana bread dry?
It may be overbaked. Check at 50 minutes and avoid leaving it in the oven too long.
Can I make this recipe in a muffin tin?
Yes! Bake for 20–25 minutes at 350°F. Check with a toothpick.
Final Thoughts
This banana bread recipe is a classic for a reason. It’s easy, delicious, and perfect for using up overripe bananas. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can bake a moist, sweet loaf that’s perfect for any time of day.
Whether you’re making it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this banana bread will be a hit. So grab your bananas, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy the best banana bread you’ve ever tasted.