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: Sweet Baking Inspiration

This Simple Banana Bread is a delightful treat that's easy to make and perfect for using up overripe bananas.

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2025-12-30T21:16:34.698Z

This Simple Banana Bread is not only a delicious way to enjoy bananas but also an easy recipe for bakers of all levels. The moist texture and sweet banana flavor make it a family favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and flavorful with a rich banana taste
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert
Easily customizable with nuts or chocolate chips

      

The Joy of Baking with Bananas

Baking with bananas not only enhances the flavor of your treats but also adds natural sweetness and moisture. Overripe bananas are perfect for banana bread because they mash easily and infuse the bread with rich, fruity goodness. This recipe takes advantage of that natural sweetness, allowing you to use less added sugar without sacrificing flavor.

Moreover, bananas are packed with nutrients, making them a healthier choice for your baking endeavors. They provide potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, contributing to a nutritious snack or breakfast option. Using bananas in your recipes is not only delicious but also a way to sneak in some healthy ingredients.

Customizing Your Banana Bread

One of the best aspects of this Simple Banana Bread recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or to use up ingredients you have on hand. Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch, or fold in chocolate chips for a sweeter treat that the whole family will love.

Additionally, you can experiment with spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to elevate the flavor profile. A sprinkle of cinnamon not only adds warmth but can also enhance the banana flavor, making each slice even more inviting. Don't hesitate to get creative and make this recipe your own!

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your banana bread is baked and cooled, it’s essential to store it properly to maintain its freshness. Wrap it in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices. This way, you can enjoy a piece whenever you crave a quick snack or a comforting breakfast.

When it comes to serving, banana bread is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it plain, or spread a bit of butter or cream cheese on top for added richness. It also pairs beautifully with coffee or tea, making it a perfect addition to your morning routine or an afternoon pick-me-up. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this banana bread is sure to please!

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). Grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.

Mix Ingredients

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

Combine Remaining Ingredients

Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Finally, stir in the flour until just combined.

Bake the Bread

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

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 Benefits of Bananas

Bananas are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. They are an excellent source of potassium, which is vital for heart health and maintaining proper muscle function. Additionally, they provide vitamin B6, which plays a crucial role in brain health and metabolism.

Moreover, the dietary fiber found in bananas helps support digestive health. Incorporating bananas into your diet can aid in regularity and promote a healthy gut. This makes banana bread not only a tasty treat but also a beneficial addition to your overall diet.

Tips for Perfect Banana Bread

To achieve the best banana bread, ensure that your bananas are very ripe, with brown spots on the skin. The riper the bananas, the more flavor they will impart to your bread. If you don't have ripe bananas on hand, you can speed up the process by placing them in a paper bag for a day or two.

Another tip is to avoid overmixing your batter. Once you add the flour, mix until just combined to keep your bread light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, which is not what you want in a delicious banana bread!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

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

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ 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 or with a few crumbs, the bread is done.