Easy Banana Bread Recipe in 5 Steps
why make this recipe
Banana bread is a beloved classic that combines sweetness and moisture in every bite. It is an excellent way to use up overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste. This easy banana bread recipe is simple and quick, making it perfect for beginners or anyone looking to whip up something delicious without fuss. Plus, it fills your home with a tempting aroma while it bakes, inviting everyone to the kitchen.
how to make Easy Banana Bread
Ingredients:
- 3 very ripe bananas (the browner and spottier, the better for sweetness)
- 1/3 cup melted butter (or coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (can substitute with 2/3 cup honey)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 4×8 inch loaf pan. The exact temperature matters—research shows a properly preheated oven reduces baking time and ensures even rising. Mash your bananas in a large mixing bowl until smooth but still chunky. For the best flavor, choose bananas that are very spotted brown; they have more natural sugars.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the melted butter to your mashed bananas and stir until mixed. The fat in butter helps make the bread light and fluffy. Then mix in the granulated sugar, the beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the wet mixture. Gently fold in the flour, stirring just until no dry flour is visible—this usually takes 12-15 strokes. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the bread tough. If you want to include nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in with just a few more strokes.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top gently. Bake in your preheated oven for 55-60 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean with a few moist crumbs attached. After about 35 minutes, you can cover the top loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while the center continues cooking.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Let your banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes to allow the structure to set. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This helps avoid a gummy texture that happens when you slice too soon.
how to serve Easy Banana Bread
Slice the banana bread and enjoy it warm or at room temperature. You can serve it plain or with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. It also pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea, making it perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
how to store Easy Banana Bread
To store your banana bread, wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bread. Slice it first, wrap each slice in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer bag. It will last in the freezer for up to three months.
tips to make Easy Banana Bread
- Use very ripe bananas for the best sweetness and flavor.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the bread light.
- If you like a sweeter bread, you can add a bit more sugar or honey.
- For added flavor, consider adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
variation
You can experiment with this recipe by adding other ingredients. Some popular variations include adding dried fruit, chocolate chips, or using different nut types. You could also replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
FAQs
1. Can I make banana bread without eggs?
Yes! You can replace the egg with a flaxseed meal or applesauce. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes gelatinous.
2. How can I tell when my banana bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready.
3. What if my bread is too dense?
A dense banana bread could be due to overmixing the batter or using bananas that aren’t ripe enough. Make sure to mash your bananas well and mix the batter minimally.
Easy Banana Bread
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 4×8 inch loaf pan.
- Mash your bananas in a large mixing bowl until smooth but still chunky.
- Add the melted butter to your mashed bananas and stir until mixed.
- Mix in the granulated sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.
- Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the wet mixture.
- Gently fold in the flour, stirring just until no dry flour is visible, usually about 12-15 strokes.
- If using nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in with a few more strokes.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top gently.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- After about 35 minutes, cover the top loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
- Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.