Easy Banana Bread Recipe
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
This Easy Banana Bread Recipe is a delightful way to use up overripe bananas, resulting in a moist and flavorful loaf that's perfect for breakfast or a snack.
This banana bread is not only easy to make, but it's also incredibly delicious. The sweet aroma of bananas baking fills your kitchen, making it a perfect treat for family and friends.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Moist and flavorful with a hint of cinnamon
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Perfect for using up overripe bananas
The Perfect Banana Bread
Banana bread is one of those classic recipes that brings warmth and comfort to any kitchen. The beauty of this Easy Banana Bread Recipe lies in its simplicity and the delicious outcome that can be achieved with just a few basic ingredients. Overripe bananas, often overlooked, become the star of the show, transforming into a moist, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack.
In addition to its delightful taste, this banana bread is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it plain, slathered with butter, or even toasted with a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra kick. It’s also an excellent canvas for customization; feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to suit your personal taste.
Using Up Overripe Bananas
If you find yourself with a bunch of overripe bananas sitting on your counter, don’t toss them out! This Easy Banana Bread Recipe is the perfect solution to reduce food waste while creating something delicious. Overripe bananas have a natural sweetness that enhances the flavor of the bread, giving it that rich, caramelized taste that everyone loves.
Moreover, baking with overripe bananas is a fantastic way to introduce your kids to the joys of cooking. They can help mash the bananas and mix the ingredients, making it a fun and interactive family activity. Plus, they’ll be excited to try a treat made from ingredients they helped prepare!
Tips for the Best Banana Bread
To ensure your banana bread turns out perfectly every time, there are a few key tips to keep in mind. First, make sure your bananas are truly overripe; the more brown spots, the better! This not only enhances the flavor but also helps achieve the desired moist texture.
Another important tip is to mix your ingredients gently. Over-mixing can lead to a dense loaf, so once you add the flour, stir just until incorporated. Lastly, if you prefer a slightly different flavor profile, consider adding spices such as nutmeg or allspice to complement the cinnamon. Enjoy experimenting to find your perfect blend!
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).
Mix the 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 the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, and mix well. Finally, add the flour and stir until just incorporated.
Pour into Loaf Pan
Pour the batter into a greased 4x8 inch loaf pan.
Bake
Bake in preheated oven for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Storage Tips
To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It is best enjoyed within a few days, but if you have leftovers, you can extend its shelf life by refrigerating it. Just be aware that refrigeration may slightly alter the texture.
For longer storage, consider freezing your banana bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the toaster for a quick warm-up.
Serving Suggestions
Banana bread is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can enjoy it plain, but don’t hesitate to get creative! Serve warm slices with a smear of cream cheese or butter for a luxurious touch. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can also elevate the experience.
For a brunch gathering, consider pairing banana bread with a selection of fresh fruits and yogurt. It not only adds color to your table but also provides a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic banana bread, the possibilities for variations are endless. Try adding chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture, or mix in chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. Dried fruits like cranberries or raisins can also add a nice chewy element.
If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with flavorings such as coconut or almond extract. Each addition will bring a unique twist to your banana bread, ensuring that you never get bored with this classic recipe!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, just thaw the bananas before mashing them.
→ How do I store leftover banana bread?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze banana bread?
Absolutely! Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing.
→ What can I do if my banana bread is too dense?
Make sure not to overmix the batter and ensure your baking soda is fresh.
Easy Banana Bread Recipe
This Easy Banana Bread Recipe is a delightful way to use up overripe bananas, resulting in a moist and flavorful loaf that's perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Created by: Rhea Bennett
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
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
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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 the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, and mix well. Finally, add the flour and stir until just incorporated.
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.
Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 3g