Simple Banana Bread

Name: Simple Banana Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 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: Oven Planning

This Simple Banana Bread recipe is a delightful way to use overripe bananas, resulting in a moist and flavorful loaf that's perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Created by

Questa Beaumont

Last updated on 2025-12-30T17:52:34.512Z

This Simple Banana Bread is not only easy to make but also a family favorite. The bananas add natural sweetness, allowing you to reduce added sugars. Enjoy it fresh from the oven or toasted with a smear of butter!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Moist and fluffy texture with a hint of sweetness
Easy to prepare with just a few simple ingredients
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert

The Joy of Baking Banana Bread

There's something truly special about walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the warm aroma of freshly baked banana bread. This simple recipe invites you to embrace the delightful process of baking. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a comforting loaf that fills your home with a sense of nostalgia. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe will guide you through every step with ease, allowing you to enjoy the fruits of your labor in no time.

Banana bread is not only delicious, but it's also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it plain, or elevate it with mix-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits. It's a fantastic way to use up those overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste, turning them into a moist, satisfying treat. This recipe is perfect for sharing with family and friends, making it a staple in any home.

Tips for the Perfect Banana Bread

To achieve the best results with your banana bread, it’s essential to use ripe bananas. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots on the peel, as they will provide the natural sweetness needed for this recipe. If you’re in a hurry, you can speed up the ripening process by placing the bananas in a paper bag for a day or two.

Another important tip is to avoid overmixing the batter. When incorporating the flour, mix gently until just combined to ensure a light and fluffy texture. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, which we want to avoid. Lastly, keep an eye on the baking time, as all ovens are different. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time to prevent overbaking.

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

Instructions

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. Do not overmix.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

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

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.

Storing Your Banana Bread

Proper storage is key to keeping your banana bread fresh and delicious. Once completely cooled, wrap the loaf in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. You can store it at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for about a week. If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing it. Slice the bread before freezing, and wrap individual slices in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag. This makes it easy to enjoy a slice whenever you crave a sweet treat.

When you're ready to enjoy a frozen slice, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature, or pop it in the microwave for a quick warm-up. The banana bread will retain its moistness and flavor, making it a perfect snack for any time of day.

Creative Variations to Try

Once you've mastered the basic banana bread recipe, feel free to get creative with your ingredients! Consider adding a half cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. If you're a chocolate lover, try mixing in a cup of chocolate chips for a rich and decadent twist. You can also experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile of your banana bread.

For a tropical flair, incorporate shredded coconut or pineapple chunks into the batter. You might also consider swapping out some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to add a bit of nuttiness and increase the nutritional value. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

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

→ How should I store banana bread?

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

→ Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?

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

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

Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it's done.