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 creates a moist and flavorful loaf that is perfect for using up overripe bananas. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with butter!

Created by

Aubrey Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-02T01:40:08.719Z

Banana bread is a beloved classic that brings comfort and warmth to any kitchen. This easy recipe is a great way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. With its simple ingredients and straightforward method, you'll have a delicious loaf ready to enjoy in no time!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to make with simple ingredients
Moist and tender texture that everyone adores
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert

      

Perfectly Ripe Bananas

The success of your banana bread hinges on the ripeness of your bananas. Look for bananas that are heavily speckled or even entirely brown. These overripe bananas are sweeter and will lend a rich flavor to your loaf. If you have bananas that are not quite ripe enough, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a brown paper bag at room temperature for a day or two.

Using ripe bananas not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the moistness of the bread. The natural sugars in overripe bananas help to caramelize during baking, creating a deliciously sweet and tender loaf. Remember, the softer and darker the banana, the better your banana bread will be!

Storage Tips for Banana Bread

Once your banana bread is baked and cooled, it's essential to store it correctly to maintain its moistness and flavor. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. Stored this way, your banana bread can last for up to a week on the countertop.

If you want to keep your banana bread for even longer, consider freezing it. Slice the loaf into individual pieces and wrap each slice in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This allows you to thaw only what you need, and your banana bread will stay fresh for up to three months in the freezer.

Customization Ideas

While this easy banana bread recipe is delicious as-is, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your taste. Consider adding a handful of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for an added crunch. Chocolate chips are another popular addition, providing a sweet surprise in every bite. You could also experiment with spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for an aromatic twist.

For a healthier option, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or add in some oats. Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can also be mixed into the batter for a delightful chewiness. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe incredibly versatile!

Ingredients

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 your bananas are ripe for the best flavor!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and 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.

Add Dry Ingredients

Mix in the baking soda and salt. Then, add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Finally, stir in the flour until just combined.

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

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

Enjoy your homemade banana bread!

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread is exceptionally versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it warm with a pat of butter for a comforting breakfast or snack. For a more indulgent treat, try spreading cream cheese or nut butter on a slice. Additionally, banana bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it a delightful addition to your afternoon break.

If you want to elevate your banana bread experience, consider toasting it before serving. Toasting brings out the natural sweetness and adds a satisfying crunch. You could even top it with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a drizzle of honey for a delicious twist.

Health Benefits of Bananas

Bananas are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are an excellent source of potassium, which is essential for heart health and maintaining proper muscle function. Furthermore, bananas contain vitamin C, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber, making them a great addition to a balanced diet.

Incorporating bananas into your baking not only reduces food waste but also adds natural sweetness to your recipes without the need for excessive sugar. This makes banana bread a healthier dessert option, especially when you choose to use whole ingredients and limit added sugars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake when making banana bread is not using ripe enough bananas. As mentioned earlier, the ripeness of the bananas is crucial for flavor and texture. Make sure to wait until your bananas are well-ripened before starting your recipe to ensure the best results.

Another mistake is overmixing the batter. When you add the flour, mix just until combined to avoid a dense loaf. Overmixing activates the gluten in the flour, which can result in a tougher texture. Remember, a few lumps are perfectly fine!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze banana bread?

Yes, banana bread freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can use a flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg substitute. Use 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water.

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

The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached.

→ Can I add other fruits?

Absolutely! You can add blueberries, chopped apples, or any other fruit to customize your banana bread.