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; 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 delightful way to use up ripe bananas, resulting in a moist and flavorful loaf that's perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2025-12-31T15:28:12.023Z

This Easy Banana Bread Recipe has been a family favorite for years. It's simple to make and delivers a deliciously moist loaf every time. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted with butter, it's sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
Perfectly moist with a delicious banana flavor
Versatile recipe that can be customized with nuts or chocolate chips

      

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Bananas

When it comes to making the best banana bread, the ripeness of your bananas is key. Look for bananas that have brown spots or are fully brown, as these will provide the sweetest flavor and the best texture. Avoid using green bananas, as they lack the natural sugars that contribute to the moistness of the bread. If you have bananas that are too ripe, don't worry; you can freeze them for later use in your banana bread recipe.

If you find yourself in a pinch and only have firm bananas, you can speed up the ripening process. Place them in a paper bag along with an apple or tomato for a day or two. The ethylene gas released will help ripen the bananas more quickly, ensuring you get that sweet flavor you're looking for in your bread.

Customizing Your Banana Bread

One of the best aspects of this banana bread recipe is its versatility. Feel free to add in your favorite mix-ins! Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch and complement the banana flavor beautifully. If you're in the mood for something sweeter, chocolate chips are a popular choice and can elevate your banana bread to a dessert-like treat.

For added flavor, consider incorporating spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter. A teaspoon of cinnamon can enhance the overall taste of the bread and pair wonderfully with the bananas. You can also experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat or almond flour, to give your banana bread a unique twist.

Storing and Freezing Banana Bread

Once your banana bread is baked and cooled, proper storage is essential to maintain its freshness. To store, wrap the loaf in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to three days, or you can refrigerate it for a longer shelf life. Just be aware that refrigeration can sometimes dry out the bread.

If you want to keep your banana bread for an extended period, freezing is a great option. Slice the bread and wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can take out a slice whenever you're craving a delicious treat. It can be frozen for up to three months, and you can enjoy a piece of homemade goodness anytime!

Ingredients

Ingredients for Easy Banana Bread

3 ripe bananas
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

Prepare the Bananas

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.

Mix Ingredients

Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas. Mix in the baking soda and salt. Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Finally, stir in the flour until just incorporated.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into a greased 4x8 inch loaf pan. Bake in preheated oven for 60-65 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.

Nutritional Benefits of Bananas

Bananas are not just delicious; they are also packed with nutrients that are beneficial for your health. They are a great source of potassium, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart function. Additionally, bananas contain vitamin C, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber, making them a nutritious choice for your banana bread.

Incorporating bananas into your diet can also aid in digestion due to their fiber content. They provide a quick energy boost, making banana bread a perfect snack for an active lifestyle. By baking with ripe bananas, you are not only reducing food waste but also creating a wholesome treat that your family will love.

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, making it a versatile choice for breakfast or snacks. Serve it plain, or for an indulgent treat, spread a layer of creamy peanut butter or almond butter on top. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can also add a touch of sweetness that complements the banana flavor beautifully.

For those who enjoy a bit of warmth, toasting your slices just before serving can enhance the flavors and make the bread even more enjoyable. Pair your banana bread with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack, or serve it alongside yogurt and fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, frozen bananas work great! Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Wrap the banana bread in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

→ How can I tell when the banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is done.