Looking for a quick, moist, and delicious banana bread recipe? This simple recipe creates a flavorful loaf using just 2 ripe bananas and basic pantry ingredients. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a must-try for banana bread lovers.
Why This Banana Bread Recipe Stands Out
The secret to a moist and rich banana bread recipe lies in using ripe bananas. Overripe bananas provide natural sweetness and softness, making them ideal for baking. Curious about why ripe bananas work so well? Visit King Arthur Baking’s guide for expert tips.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
How to Make the Best Banana Bread Recipe
1. Preheat Your Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mash and Mix
- In a large bowl, mash the 2 bananas until smooth.
- Add the melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread light.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Variations of This Banana Bread Recipe
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a fun and indulgent twist.
Pumpkin Banana Loaf
Combine mashed pumpkin with the bananas for a seasonal take on this banana bread recipe. Check out this pumpkin banana loaf recipe for inspiration.
Healthy Banana Bread
Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and reduce sugar to 1/2 cup for a lighter version.
How to Serve and Store Banana Bread
Serving Ideas
- Serve warm with butter or cream cheese.
- Pair with coffee or tea for a cozy snack.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps for up to a week when wrapped tightly.
- Freezer: Slice and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in the microwave for 20 seconds.
For more ideas on storing homemade baked goods, visit Serious Eats’ baking guide.
FAQs About This Banana Bread Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Bananas?
Yes! Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg and use coconut oil instead of butter.
Can I Add Extra Bananas?
This banana bread recipe works best with 2 bananas, but adding a third will enhance the flavor and moisture.
Make It Your Own
This easy banana bread recipe is perfect for experimenting with fun variations and add-ins. Whether you stick with the classic version or add chocolate chips or nuts, it’s sure to be a hit. For more inspiration, explore the best banana bread recipes.
Happy baking! 🍌🍞