Simple Banana Bread

Name: Simple Banana Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 3/4 cup sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Collection

Delight in the warmth and comfort of homemade Simple Banana Bread, the perfect treat for breakfast or a snack.

Created by

Isabella Clark

Last updated on 2025-12-30T21:01:35.714Z

This Simple Banana Bread recipe is a family favorite that has been passed down through generations. The sweet aroma of bananas baking fills your home, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Perfect for using up overripe bananas, it’s a delicious way to reduce food waste!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and fluffy texture that’s incredibly satisfying
Versatile recipe that allows for added nuts or chocolate chips
Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack

      

A Classic Comfort Food

Banana bread is a beloved staple in many households, known for its comforting aroma and delightful taste. This Simple Banana Bread recipe is not only easy to follow but also brings together the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the richness of butter. Whether you're enjoying it warm out of the oven or as a quick grab-and-go breakfast, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.

The beauty of banana bread lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a moist, flavorful loaf that highlights the bananas' natural sweetness. It's perfect for using up overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste. Plus, the versatility of this recipe means you can customize it with your favorite mix-ins, from crunchy walnuts to gooey chocolate chips.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Simple Banana Bread is not just a breakfast option; it's an all-day treat! Serve it as a delightful snack during the day, or enjoy a slice with your afternoon coffee. It also makes a wonderful dessert option, especially when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The soft, fluffy texture and rich flavor make it an instant crowd-pleaser at gatherings or potlucks.

Additionally, banana bread is great for meal prep. You can make a loaf ahead of time and store it for up to a week, or freeze individual slices for a quick snack on busy days. This makes it an ideal recipe for those looking to have something homemade and delicious at the ready without much fuss.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with this banana bread recipe, use very ripe bananas. The more speckled and brown they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. If you find yourself short on time, you can speed up the ripening process by placing bananas in a paper bag for a day or two.

Another tip is to avoid over-mixing the batter once the flour is added. Over-mixing can lead to a dense loaf rather than a light and fluffy one. Just mix until the flour is incorporated, and remember that some lumps are perfectly fine. Lastly, let the banana bread cool in the pan for a bit before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its shape and texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Simple Banana Bread:

Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
3/4 cup sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour

With these ingredients in hand, you're ready to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious banana bread:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with the mashed bananas. Stir in the baking soda and salt. Then add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract and mix well.

Add the Flour

Finally, mix in the flour until just incorporated. Do not over-mix.

Pour into Loaf Pan

Pour the batter into a greased 4x8 inch loaf pan.

Bake

Bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade banana bread!

Storage Tips

To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can last for up to four days, maintaining its delicious flavor and moistness. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing it. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever the craving strikes!

When freezing, make sure to label and date your banana bread. It's easy to forget when it was made, and this helps ensure you consume it while it's still at its best. To thaw, simply remove a slice from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds.

Customization Ideas

One of the best things about banana bread is its versatility. You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. If you’re a chocolate lover, fold in some chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a rich twist. You can also experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth.

For a healthier option, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use maple syrup instead of sugar. You can also include dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added texture and flavor. The possibilities are endless, making this Simple Banana Bread a wonderful canvas for your culinary creativity.

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread can be enjoyed in many different ways. For a hearty breakfast, try toasting a slice and spreading a bit of almond butter or cream cheese on top. Add some fresh fruit or a sprinkle of granola for an extra nutritious boost. If you're serving it as a dessert, consider pairing it with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent treat.

For those who like a bit of flair, drizzling a homemade caramel or chocolate sauce over a warm slice can elevate your banana bread experience. Additionally, serving it with a hot cup of tea or coffee makes for a cozy afternoon snack or delightful brunch option. No matter how you serve it, this banana bread is sure to impress!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw the bananas and mash them before using.

→ How do I store banana bread?

Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How can I enhance the flavor?

Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor boost.