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 the perfect way to use overripe bananas, creating a moist and flavorful loaf that's ideal for breakfast or a snack.

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-02T03:28:05.036Z

This Easy Banana Bread Recipe has been passed down through generations, bringing comfort and warmth to any kitchen. The sweet aroma of baking bananas fills the air, making it a favorite for many.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Simple ingredients that you likely already have at home
Perfectly moist with a delightful banana flavor
Great for breakfast, dessert, or a snack

      

The Joy of Baking Banana Bread

Baking banana bread is not only a delicious endeavor but also a therapeutic one. The sweet aroma of bananas mingling with warm, melted butter fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere. It's a simple yet satisfying process that can be enjoyed by bakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this recipe will guide you through each step with ease and confidence.

Moreover, banana bread is incredibly versatile. You can customize it with a variety of mix-ins such as nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruit. Each variation can offer a new twist on the classic flavor, making it a delightful treat that never gets old. Plus, this recipe serves as a fantastic base for your creativity, allowing you to experiment and make it your own.

Tips for the Perfect Banana Bread

To achieve the best results, it’s crucial to use overripe bananas. They should be heavily speckled or even completely brown. This not only enhances the flavor but also ensures a moist texture in your bread. If you only have yellow bananas on hand, consider placing them in a brown paper bag to accelerate the ripening process. This tip can save you when you're craving banana bread and don’t have the right bananas.

Measuring your ingredients accurately is another key factor in baking success. Using a kitchen scale can help achieve precise measurements, especially when it comes to flour. Too much flour can lead to a dense loaf. Additionally, make sure to mix the batter just until the flour is incorporated. Over-mixing can result in tough bread, while a gentle hand will yield a tender crumb.

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

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Butter and Bananas

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

Combine Ingredients

Mix in the baking soda and salt. Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Stir in the flour until just combined.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and 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 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade banana bread warm or at room temperature!

Storage Tips

Once your banana bread has cooled completely, it can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. To keep it fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing your banana bread. Slice it before freezing for easy access to individual servings. Just remember to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn, and it can last for up to three months in the freezer.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen banana bread, simply remove the slices and let them thaw at room temperature. For a warm treat, you can pop them in the toaster or microwave for a few seconds. The delightful aroma will fill your kitchen once again, making it feel like fresh-baked goodness.

Healthier Variations

If you're looking to make a healthier version of this banana bread, consider substituting some ingredients. For instance, you can replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients. Additionally, you might swap some or all of the sugar for a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. This adjustment not only reduces refined sugar but also adds a unique flavor profile.

Another option is to incorporate healthier add-ins. Instead of chocolate chips, try using unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt to enhance moisture without the extra fat. You can also add nuts or seeds for a crunchy texture and extra protein. These changes create a nutritious snack that satisfies your sweet tooth while keeping your health in check.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, frozen bananas work well. Just thaw them and mash before using.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

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

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

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

→ What can I do if my banana bread is too dense?

Ensure you are not overmixing the batter and check that your baking soda is fresh.