There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh banana bread wafting through your kitchen. This simple, classic recipe is everything banana bread should be: moist, flavorful, and beautifully golden on the outside. Whether you like yours plain, studded with chocolate chips, or topped with chopped nuts, this banana bread is a go-to bake that’s perfect for using up overripe bananas—and impressing everyone who takes a slice.
Why I Love This Recipe
This banana bread is uncomplicated and endlessly comforting. It’s made with pantry staples, comes together in one bowl, and is incredibly forgiving. Plus, it’s easy to customize—add-ins like walnuts or chocolate chips blend in beautifully, and a pinch of cinnamon adds cozy depth. It’s the kind of recipe I return to again and again, whether I’m meal prepping breakfasts or gifting a homemade treat.
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)
🕒 Prep Time: 10 minutes
🔥 Bake Time: 50–55 minutes
🍽️ Makes: 1 loaf
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
2. Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth using a fork or potato masher. Stir in the melted butter.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
5. Mix Gently
Gradually fold the dry mixture into the banana mixture. Stir just until no streaks of flour remain—don’t overmix!
6. Add Optional Mix-Ins
Fold in chopped walnuts or chocolate chips, if desired.
7. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top and bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Success
- Use overripe bananas with lots of brown spots—they add the best sweetness and moisture.
- Don’t overmix the batter, or your bread may turn out dense.
- Add-ins are optional but encouraged—walnuts, pecans, or even peanut butter chips add fun texture.
- Store at room temp, tightly wrapped, for up to 3 days—or freeze slices for grab-and-go breakfasts.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Pair with Blueberry Lemonade for a refreshing brunch combo.
- Serve alongside 3-Ingredient Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies for a breakfast treat box.
- Add a side of No-Bake Monster Cookie Energy Balls for balance.
- Love banana bread? Try Chocolate Chip Banana Bread for a gooey upgrade.
- Finish with dessert like Copycat Neiman Marcus Cookies.
Storage & Freezing Tips
- Store at room temperature wrapped in foil or plastic wrap for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate if adding fresh fruit or dairy-heavy ingredients—up to 5 days.
- Freeze whole or in slices, tightly wrapped, for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave slices for a warm treat.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- This Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Is My Favorite Way to Use Up Overripe Bananas
- These Copycat Neiman Marcus Chocolate Chip Cookies Are My Secret Weapon Dessert
- This Blueberry Lemonade Is My Favorite Refreshing Drink for Sunny Days
- These No-Bake Monster Cookie Energy Balls Are My Favorite Snack to Keep On Hand
- These 3-Ingredient Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies Are My Morning Time Saver
Final Thoughts
This Banana Bread Recipe is the kind of bake that comforts, satisfies, and fills your home with sweet, nostalgic warmth. Whether it’s a quick breakfast, afternoon snack, or midnight bite, a thick slice of banana bread always hits the spot. Make it once and you’ll be hooked.
Tried it? Tag @ChefManiac and show off your perfectly golden loaf!
