Banana bread is a delicious and comforting baked good that is perfect for using up overripe bananas. It strikes the perfect balance between sweet, moist, and flavorful, with just the right amount of texture. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, this simple recipe will help you create a moist and flavorful loaf that everyone will enjoy. Let’s dive into the recipe!
- Ingredients
- Wet Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 ¼ cups)
- ½ cup melted butter (unsalted is preferred)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (you can reduce to ¾ cup for less sweetness)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Optional Add-ins:
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (for a warm, spiced flavor)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (for crunch)
- ½ cup chocolate chips (for added sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon milk (if batter seems too thick)
- Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
Prepare the wet ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth.
Stir in the melted butter, making sure it’s fully incorporated.
Add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
Mix the dry ingredients:
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt (and cinnamon if using).
Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold them together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
Add-ins (if desired):
If using nuts or chocolate chips, fold them into the batter at this point. Ensure they are evenly distributed.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Bake the banana bread for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking time may vary depending on your oven, so check around the 55-minute mark.
Cool the loaf: Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips for Success
Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Bananas with brown spots or fully brown skins work best.
Don’t overmix: Stir the batter until just combined to avoid developing too much gluten, which can make your bread tough.
Customizable add-ins: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins such as dried fruits, seeds, or shredded coconut. You can also experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist.
Storage: Banana bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for up to a week. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
Variations
Banana Nut Bread: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added crunch.
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a richer, dessert-like loaf.
Gluten-Free Banana Bread: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
Vegan Banana Bread: Replace the eggs with flaxseed eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water per egg), and use coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative instead of regular butter.
Serving Suggestions
Banana bread is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with a few creative serving ideas:
Spread with butter, cream cheese, or peanut butter for a savory contrast.
Top with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of honey for a decadent touch.
Toast a slice and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.
Conclusion
Banana bread is a beloved classic that’s easy to make, adaptable, and perfect for any time of the day. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a dessert, this moist and flavorful bread is sure to be a hit. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up this crowd-pleasing treat in no time!
Happy baking!
