There is nothing quite like the smell of banana bread baking in the oven. It fills the kitchen with that warm, sweet aroma that instantly makes everything feel a little cozier.
This Easy Banana Bread Recipe is one I come back to again and again. It is soft, moist, and perfectly sweet, made with simple ingredients you probably already have. Whether you have a few overripe bananas on the counter or just want something comforting, this recipe never disappoints. Let's get baking!
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Soft, moist, and tender crumb
- Perfect way to use ripe bananas
- Simple pantry ingredients
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Great for breakfast, snack, or dessert
- Freezer-friendly and make-ahead friendly
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
I have baked this banana bread so many times, and a few little tips make all the difference.
- Bananas: The riper, the better. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots for the sweetest flavor.
- Butter: Adds richness and keeps the loaf tender.
- Sugar: You can swap part of it for brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Flour: All-purpose works perfectly, but whole wheat can be used for a heartier texture.
If you want to make it dairy-free, you can substitute the butter with a neutral oil.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 350°F and grease a loaf pan. - Mash the bananas
In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth with a few small lumps. - Mix the wet ingredients
Stir in melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
- Add the dry ingredients
Sprinkle in flour, baking soda, and salt. Gently mix until just combined. Do not overmix here. The batter should look soft and slightly thick. - Pour into the pan
Transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake
Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. - Cool and serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor
- Do not overmix the batter to keep it soft
- Check for doneness with a toothpick
- Let it cool before slicing for clean pieces
- Add a sprinkle of sugar on top before baking for a crisp crust
Storage and Reheating
- Store at room temperature for up to 3 days
- Keep in an airtight container to maintain moisture
- Warm slices slightly for a fresh-from-the-oven feel
Make Ahead & Freezing
- Freeze the loaf for up to 2 months
- Wrap tightly before freezing
- Thaw at room temperature before serving
Tips and Variations
- Add chocolate chips for a sweet twist
- Mix in chopped nuts for crunch
- Add cinnamon for extra warmth
- Swirl in peanut butter for a fun variation
- Top with sliced bananas before baking
FAQs
Yes, just thaw and drain any excess liquid before using.
Use ripe bananas and avoid overbaking.
Absolutely, just reduce the baking time to about 20 to 25 minutes.
📖 Recipe
Easy Banana Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 loaves (8-10 slices each) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Easy Banana Bread Recipe made with ripe bananas and simple ingredients you already have. Quick to make, moist, flavorful, and always a hit!
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3-4 medium ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two 8×4-inch loaf pans with parchment paper or grease them generously.
- In a small bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth, leaving some small chunks for texture.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy using a hand or stand mixer.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition.
- In a different bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly blended.
- Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
- Fold in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
- Let the loaves rest in the pans for 5 to 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool fully.
Notes
Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture. Tent with foil if the tops brown too quickly. Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts make great variations.
Serving Suggestions
This banana bread is perfect in so many ways.
- Serve warm with a little butter
- Enjoy with coffee or tea
- Add a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness
- Pair with yogurt and fruit for breakfast
It is one of those simple treats that always feels just right.
Nutrition & Notes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
I have made this recipe on quiet mornings and busy afternoons, and it always brings that same comforting feeling. It is simple, reliable, and so worth it.
Reader Reviews or Testimonials
"So soft and moist. This is now my go-to banana bread recipe."
"Perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Loved it."
Related Recipes / Internal Links
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