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 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

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-01-02T02:22:06.616Z

Banana bread is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. This easy recipe allows you to create a delicious loaf with minimal effort, making it the perfect choice for busy bakers.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Simple ingredients that you likely already have at home
Moist and tender texture with a hint of sweetness
Versatile – add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor

      

The Perfect Use for Overripe Bananas

Banana bread is a beloved comfort food that transforms overripe bananas into a delicious treat. Instead of tossing those brown bananas in the trash, this recipe offers a simple and satisfying solution. The natural sweetness of the bananas enhances the flavor of the bread, making it a delightful snack or breakfast option. Plus, with just a few steps, you can have a warm loaf ready to enjoy in no time.

This recipe is not only about taste but also about reducing food waste. Utilizing overripe bananas ensures that you make the most of your groceries while treating yourself to a scrumptious baked good. It's a win-win situation that allows you to savor every bite while contributing to a more sustainable kitchen.

Customizing Your Banana Bread

One of the best features of this banana bread recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or to use up what you have on hand. For a delightful crunch, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans. If you're a chocolate lover, throwing in some chocolate chips can elevate the flavor profile and make it extra indulgent.

Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can also be incorporated for an added depth of flavor. Simply sprinkle in a teaspoon of your favorite spice when mixing the wet ingredients. This adaptability means you can create a unique version of banana bread each time you make it, ensuring that it never gets boring.

Storing and Serving Tips

To maintain the freshness of your banana bread, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can last for about 3 to 4 days, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or as a grab-and-go snack during the week. If you're looking to keep it for longer, consider freezing individual slices. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.

When it comes to serving, banana bread is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it even further. A smear of butter or a drizzle of honey adds a luxurious touch, while a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully for a dessert option. Whether you enjoy it plain or with toppings, banana bread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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) and grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter, then add the baking soda and salt.

Add Sugar, Egg, and Vanilla

Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Incorporate Flour

Gradually stir in the flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Bake

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 banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you're wondering about the best type of bananas to use for this recipe, opt for fully ripe bananas with brown spots. These bananas are sweeter and softer, which makes them perfect for mashing into your batter. The riper the bananas, the more flavor they will contribute to your banana bread.

In case you don’t have all-purpose flour, you can substitute it with whole-wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly, but it’s a great way to accommodate dietary preferences.

Baking Tips for Success

For the best results, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help you achieve precision, especially for the flour. Also, avoid overmixing the batter once you add the flour, as this can lead to a dense loaf instead of the light, fluffy texture you desire.

Check the doneness of your banana bread a few minutes before the suggested baking time. Ovens can vary, and you want to ensure that your bread is perfectly baked without being overcooked. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, thaw the frozen bananas and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ 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 make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, 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.