🍌 One-Bowl Banana Bread
Introduction
There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about a loaf of banana bread fresh from the oven. This one-bowl version makes the classic even easier—no mixer, minimal cleanup, and reliably moist every single time. Perfect for breakfast, snack time, or using up those overripe bananas on your counter, this recipe comes together in minutes and never disappoints.
Why I Love This Recipe
It’s a go-to for when I want to bake something warm and comforting without making a mess. No need for stand mixers or a pile of bowls—just mash, mix, bake, and enjoy. This pairs beautifully with other cozy favorites like chocolate chip banana bread or pumpkin spice muffins when the baking mood hits.
🛒 Ingredients
- 2 to 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
👨🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 4×8-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth using a fork or potato masher.
3️⃣ Add the Wet Ingredients
Stir the melted butter into the bananas.
Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4️⃣ Add the Dry Ingredients
Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the banana mixture.
Stir in the flour, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix—the batter should look slightly lumpy.
5️⃣ Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake for 60–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6️⃣ Cool & Slice
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Cool completely before slicing for best texture.
⏱️ Time & Yield
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Bake Time: 60–65 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: ~210 per slice
💡 Tips for Success
- Extra ripe bananas (brown and spotty) make the moistest bread.
- Add ½ cup of chocolate chips, nuts, or blueberries for a flavor twist.
- Store the loaf wrapped in foil or in an airtight container to retain moisture.
- Make mini loaves by adjusting the bake time to 30–35 minutes.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Banana bread is endlessly versatile. Try it:
- Warm with a pat of butter
- Toasted and slathered with cream cheese
- Paired with chocolate chip cookie bites for an afternoon treat board
- Served alongside Neiman Marcus cookies for a bake sale spread
- With holiday favorites like Easter cookies for a festive twist
❄️ Storage & Freezing
- Counter: Wrap and store at room temperature for up to 3 days
- Fridge: Keeps well for up to 1 week
- Freezer: Slice, wrap individually, and freeze for up to 2 months
- To reheat: Warm slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or toast lightly
🍴 More Recipes You’ll Love
- This Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Is My Favorite Way to Use Up Overripe Bananas
- These Easy Pumpkin Spice Muffins Are My Favorite Fall Treat to Bake on Repeat
- These Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites Are My Favorite Little Treat to Bake Anytime
- The Easter Cookies Everyone Will Be Talking About and Asking the Recipe For
- These Copycat Neiman Marcus Chocolate Chip Cookies Are My Secret Weapon Dessert
🧾 Final Thoughts
This One-Bowl Banana Bread proves that simple can still be seriously delicious. Whether you’re baking with kids, using up fruit, or craving something comforting with your coffee, this loaf never fails to hit the spot. Keep it on hand for easy mornings, snack attacks, and sweet moments.
💬 Share the Slice!
Did you bake this? Share your loaf and tag @ChefManiac! Want a printable version or to pin this recipe to your board? Just let me know—I’ll slice it up for you in style.
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