Simple Banana Bread

Name: Simple Banana Bread
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: Classic Baking Recipes

Simple Banana Bread

Created by

Harriet Bloom

Last updated on 2025-12-30T19:22:34.574Z

This Simple Banana Bread is a family favorite that brings warmth and comfort to any kitchen. It's the perfect recipe to use up overripe bananas and fills your home with a delightful aroma.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and tender texture with every bite
Deliciously sweet flavor from ripe bananas
Easy to make with minimal ingredients

      

The Perfect Snack or Breakfast

Banana bread is a versatile treat that makes for a perfect snack or breakfast option. Its moist and tender texture complements a morning cup of coffee or tea beautifully. Whether served warm with a pat of butter or enjoyed plain, this banana bread is sure to please. With its sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen, it invites everyone to gather around and enjoy a slice together.

Moreover, banana bread is an excellent way to use up overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste. Instead of tossing them out, mash them up and transform them into a delightful loaf. This not only helps reduce food waste but also provides a delicious solution for those looking to make something homemade and wholesome.

Customizable and Fun

One of the best features of banana bread is its adaptability. The basic recipe is a blank canvas, allowing you to add your favorite mix-ins. Consider folding in chocolate chips for a decadent treat, or nuts for added crunch. Dried fruit like raisins or cranberries can also elevate the flavor profile, providing a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the bananas. The possibilities are endless, making it a fun recipe to experiment with.

Additionally, you can easily modify the recipe to suit dietary preferences. For a healthier twist, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, or reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet bread. These variations allow you to enjoy banana bread while keeping it aligned with your dietary needs.

Storage Tips

Once you've baked your delicious banana bread, proper storage is key to maintaining its freshness. Allow the bread to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help retain moisture and keep it soft. Stored this way, banana bread can last at room temperature for about 3-4 days, or you can refrigerate it for up to a week.

For longer storage, consider freezing your banana bread. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or on the countertop. You can also slice the bread before freezing, allowing you to defrost only what you need, making it a convenient option for quick snacks or breakfasts.

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

Make sure to use ripe bananas 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, then mix in the baking soda and salt.

Add Sugar and Egg

Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.

Incorporate Flour

Finally, mix in the flour until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.

Pour and Bake

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 it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious homemade banana bread!

Tips for Perfect Banana Bread

To achieve the best results with your banana bread, use very ripe bananas. The more spots and brown skin they have, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. This natural sweetness reduces the need for added sugar, allowing the banana flavor to shine through.

Also, it's important not to overmix the batter once you add the flour. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf rather than a light and fluffy one. Mix just until the flour is incorporated, and you'll be rewarded with a tender and moist banana bread.

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread can be enjoyed on its own, but there are plenty of ways to elevate your experience. Consider serving it warm, topped with a smear of butter or a dollop of cream cheese for added richness. For a delightful contrast, pair it with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

You can also toast slices for a crunchy texture, which can bring out the flavors even more. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey on top can add an extra layer of deliciousness, making it a truly indulgent treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

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

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a 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, the bread is done.