This Classic Banana Bread is moist, soft, and packed with rich banana flavor! It’s a simple, foolproof recipe that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Plus, it’s great for using up overripe bananas!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Super Moist & Fluffy – Perfect texture every time!
✔️ Easy & Foolproof – Made in one bowl, no mixer needed.
✔️ Customizable – Add chocolate chips, nuts, or cinnamon for extra flavor!
✔️ Great for Meal Prep – Stays fresh for days and freezes well.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup brown sugar (or granulated sugar)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ½ cup chocolate chips
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mash Bananas & Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a large bowl, mash bananas with a fork until smooth.
- Stir in melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
- Add flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon to the bowl.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined (do not overmix).
Step 4: Add Mix-Ins & Bake
- If using, fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool & Serve
- Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Serving Suggestions
☕ With coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast.
🥜 Spread with peanut butter or Nutella for extra richness.
🍓 Top with fresh berries for a refreshing twist.
Storage & Freezing
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Fridge: Keeps for up to a week.
- Freezer: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes! Use half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a denser but healthier loaf.
2. Can I make banana muffins instead?
Yes! Divide batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes.
3. How do I make it dairy-free?
Swap butter for coconut oil or vegetable oil.
4. What if my bananas aren’t ripe?
Roast bananas in the oven at 300°F for 15 minutes to soften them.
5. Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes! Reduce to ½ cup or use honey/maple syrup instead.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Banana Bread is soft, moist, and packed with flavor—a perfect easy-bake recipe for beginners and pros alike. Whether plain, nutty, or chocolaty, it’s always a hit!
🍌🍞 Tried this recipe? Let me know how it turned out! 😊