Easy Banana Bread Recipe
Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Inspiration
This Easy Banana Bread Recipe transforms overripe bananas into a moist, delicious loaf that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack.
This Easy Banana Bread Recipe is a staple in many households. It’s quick to prepare and is a great way to use up overripe bananas. The result is a wonderfully flavorful bread that’s perfect for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich banana flavor with a hint of vanilla
- Moist texture that stays fresh for days
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
Perfect for Any Occasion
Banana bread is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether it's a quick breakfast, a midday snack, or a delightful dessert, this easy banana bread recipe fits the bill. The rich, moist loaf pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal companion for leisurely mornings or afternoon breaks.
Additionally, this banana bread can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding nuts for a delightful crunch, chocolate chips for a touch of sweetness, or dried fruits for added flavor. The options are endless, allowing you to create a unique version of this classic recipe every time.
Health Benefits of Bananas
Bananas are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are a great source of potassium, which is essential for heart health and maintaining proper muscle function. Additionally, bananas provide dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer. Incorporating bananas into your diet can contribute to overall well-being.
Using overripe bananas in this recipe is a smart choice, as they are naturally sweeter and easier to mash. This means you can reduce the amount of added sugar in your banana bread without sacrificing flavor. It's a win-win for both taste and health!
Storing and Freezing Banana Bread
To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you'd like to extend its shelf life, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy a slice of homemade goodness whenever the craving strikes.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen banana bread, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or on the counter for a few hours. You can also pop individual slices in the microwave for a quick warm-up. This way, you can savor the delightful taste of banana bread anytime!
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). Grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.
Mix Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, mix the melted butter with the mashed bananas. Then, mix in the baking soda and salt.
Add Sugar, Egg, and Vanilla
Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla until well combined.
Incorporate Flour
Finally, mix in the flour until just incorporated. Do not overmix.
Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your homemade banana bread warm or at room temperature!
Tips for the Best Banana Bread
For the best flavor, choose bananas that are very ripe, with brown spots on their skin. The more overripe the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. If you have some bananas that are starting to turn, don’t hesitate to use them; they are perfect for this recipe.
Be careful not to overmix your batter. Mixing just until the dry ingredients are incorporated will yield a tender loaf. Overmixing can result in a dense, tough texture, which we want to avoid for that perfect moist banana bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your banana bread warm, slathered with butter or cream cheese for a delicious treat. You can also enjoy it plain or with a drizzle of honey for an added touch of sweetness. If you're feeling adventurous, try pairing slices with fresh fruit or yogurt for a wholesome breakfast or snack.
For special occasions, consider turning your banana bread into a dessert by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for an elegant finishing touch that elevates your homemade creation.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
→ How do I store banana bread?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ 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.
Easy Banana Bread Recipe
This Easy Banana Bread Recipe transforms overripe bananas into a moist, delicious loaf that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Created by: Victoria Hall
Recipe Type: Sweet Baking Inspiration
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). Grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.
In a mixing bowl, mix the melted butter with the mashed bananas. Then, mix in the baking soda and salt.
Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla until well combined.
Finally, mix in the flour until just incorporated. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 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: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 14g
- Protein: 2g