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 simple and delicious way to use overripe bananas. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack!

Created by

Diana Brooks

Last updated on 2025-12-31T17:22:06.217Z

This banana bread is not only easy to make but also incredibly moist and flavorful. It's a family favorite that disappears quickly!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Moist and flavorful with every bite
Perfectly sweet with a hint of vanilla
Great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert

      

The Perfect Use for Overripe Bananas

If you often find yourself with overripe bananas sitting on your countertop, this Easy Banana Bread Recipe is the perfect solution. Instead of tossing those brown bananas in the trash, transform them into a moist and delicious bread that your whole family will love. The natural sweetness of the bananas enhances the flavor of the bread, making it a delightful treat that’s both satisfying and guilt-free.

Using overripe bananas not only adds sweetness but also contributes to the overall moisture of the bread. This means that even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, you can achieve a bakery-quality loaf that rivals any store-bought option. Plus, banana bread is incredibly versatile; it can be enjoyed on its own or dressed up with your favorite toppings.

Versatile Serving Options

One of the best aspects of banana bread is its versatility. It makes for a hearty breakfast option when paired with a pat of butter or a smear of cream cheese. Alternatively, you can slice it up for a quick snack throughout the day. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee or serving it at an afternoon gathering, banana bread always hits the spot.

For those who enjoy a little twist, consider adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to the batter. These additions can elevate your banana bread to new heights, providing an extra layer of flavor and texture that everyone will appreciate. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a staple in every home.

Storing and Freezing Banana Bread

Once you’ve baked your delicious banana bread, you may wonder about the best way to store it. To keep your banana bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it for a longer period, freezing is an excellent option.

To freeze your banana bread, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer-safe bag. This will help prevent freezer burn and preserve its flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds. You’ll be amazed at how well it retains its moisture and taste!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious 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

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start making the banana bread!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your banana bread:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork. Stir in the melted butter until combined.

Add Sugar, Egg, and Vanilla

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture and mix in.

Add Flour

Gradually add the flour and mix until just incorporated.

Pour into Loaf Pan

Pour the batter into a greased 4x8 inch loaf pan.

Bake

Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

Enjoy your homemade banana bread!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake when baking banana bread is using bananas that aren't ripe enough. Make sure your bananas are well speckled with brown spots for optimal sweetness and moisture. If they are still yellow or green, they won't impart the same flavor, leading to a less satisfying loaf.

Another pitfall is overmixing the batter. Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in a dense and chewy texture, which is not what you want for banana bread. Keep it light and airy for the best results!

Customization Ideas

Feel free to customize your banana bread to suit your tastes. Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can provide a nice crunch, while chocolate chips can satisfy any sweet tooth. For a healthier twist, consider incorporating oats or whole wheat flour in place of all-purpose flour, which can add both nutrition and a unique texture.

Spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg can also elevate the flavor profile of your banana bread. A pinch of these spices can add warmth and depth, enhancing the overall experience. Don’t hesitate to experiment and find the perfect combination that suits your palate!

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread can be served in various delightful ways. Try toasting a slice and adding a smear of almond butter or peanut butter for a protein-packed snack. You can also enjoy it with a dollop of yogurt and fresh fruit for a nutritious breakfast option.

For dessert, serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce. This combination is sure to impress your guests and make any occasion feel special. No matter how you choose to serve it, banana bread is always a crowd-pleaser!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just thaw them and mash them before adding to the mixture.

→ How do I store banana bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for a week.

→ Can I freeze banana bread?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for sugar?

You can use honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute that measures like sugar.