Banana Bread: A Comforting Classic You’ll Bake Again and Again
Few things say “home” like the warm, sweet smell of banana bread baking in the oven. This recipe is simple, straightforward, and delivers that tender, moist loaf everyone craves. Whether you’re using up ripe bananas or baking a weekend treat, this banana bread is a guaranteed winner.
Made with pantry staples and no mixer required, it’s easy enough for beginners yet delivers bakery-level results. Enjoy a slice warm with butter, toasted for breakfast, or as an afternoon snack with coffee or tea.
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s nothing complicated here—just honest ingredients, a one-bowl method, and perfect banana flavor in every bite. It’s sweet but not too sweet, moist without being greasy, and holds together with a soft crumb.
Even better? You can customize it with chocolate chips, nuts, or a swirl of peanut butter (if you’re feeling bold).
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- ⅓ cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
Ingredient Notes & Swaps
- Bananas: The riper, the better—brown and spotty bananas yield the best flavor and moisture.
- Butter: Melted butter adds richness, but coconut oil works great as a swap.
- Sugar: Use white sugar, or try brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Add-ins: Fold in ½ cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips if you like!
How to Make Banana Bread
1. Preheat Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Mash Bananas
In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth.
3. Add Wet Ingredients
Stir the melted butter into the bananas. Mix in baking soda, salt, sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla until combined.
4. Add Flour
Stir in the flour until just incorporated—do not overmix.
5. Bake
Pour the batter into your greased loaf pan.
Bake for 60–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool & Serve
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Banana Bread
- Use overripe bananas. The darker the peel, the sweeter the loaf.
- Don’t overmix. Stir until just combined for a soft, tender crumb.
- Grease your pan well or line with parchment for easy release.
- Check early. Start testing with a toothpick around 55 minutes.
What to Serve With Banana Bread
Whether enjoyed for breakfast or dessert, it pairs perfectly with:
- A hot mug of coffee or tea
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert
- A drizzle of peanut butter or Nutella for extra indulgence
And don’t miss these related treats:
- Chocolate Chip Banana Bread – sweet, soft, and packed with melty chips
- Easy Pumpkin Spice Muffins – another cozy baking staple
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites – fun to share and snack on
- No-Bake Cookies – when you want something sweet fast
Storage & Freezing
- Room Temp: Store wrapped in foil or airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Fridge: Keeps for up to 7 days if you prefer it chilled.
- Freezer: Freeze slices or whole loaf (wrapped well) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
More Cozy Bakes to Try
Final Thoughts
This Banana Bread recipe is simple, reliable, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re baking for family, gifting a loaf, or just saving those last few bananas, it’s a recipe you’ll always come back to.
💬 Did you make it? Share your twist in the comments or tag @chefmaniac to show off your loaf. And don’t forget to follow for more baking favorites and easy comfort classics!
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