Classic Banana Bread

Classic Banana Bread: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe 🍞🍌✨

1. Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through your kitchen. This classic banana bread recipe is more than just a recipe; it’s a hug in loaf form. It’s a timeless favorite, perfect for breakfast, a quick snack, or even a satisfying dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned baker looking for a foolproof recipe or just starting out on your baking journey, this guide will walk you through creating the most delicious, moist banana bread you’ve ever tasted. Say goodbye to dry, bland banana bread and get ready to transform those overripe bananas into a loaf of pure delight! And if you’re looking for other baking adventures, check out our baking recipes.

2. Why This Recipe Works

This isn’t just any banana bread recipe; it’s a meticulously crafted, tried-and-true method that guarantees a moist banana bread every single time. We’ve taken the guesswork out of baking! The key to its success lies in using *truly* overripe bananas, those speckled and almost black ones, which provide the perfect natural sweetness and essential moisture. We also take great care to balance the dry and wet ingredients, ensuring a tender, delicate crumb that melts in your mouth. Plus, this is an easy banana bread recipe, making it accessible and enjoyable for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros. For another easy treat, why not try these No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Balls!

3. Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this masterpiece. Don’t skimp on quality – it makes a difference!

• 3-4 ripe bananas, mashed (the riper, the better!)
• 1/3 cup melted butter (unsalted, to control the saltiness)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
• 1 large egg (room temperature is ideal for better mixing)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure vanilla extract provides the best flavor)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled for accuracy)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda (ensures a good rise)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors)

4. Equipment Needed

Make sure you have these essential tools at your fingertips before you begin.

• Loaf pan (standard 9×5 inch is recommended)
• Mixing bowls (various sizes for wet and dry ingredients)
• Measuring cups and spoons (for accurate measurements)
• Whisk or fork (for combining dry ingredients)
• Spatula (for folding and scraping the bowl)

5. Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to achieve banana bread perfection! For a comforting savory meal on a cold day, you might also enjoy our Amish Snow Day Soup!

1. Prepare the Bananas

Start by mashing the ripe bananas in a large bowl until they are mostly smooth. A few small chunks are perfectly fine – in fact, they add a delightful burst of banana flavor to each bite! This mashing process is what gives your homemade banana bread its signature texture, rich moisture, and intense banana flavor. The riper the bananas, the easier they are to mash and the sweeter your bread will be.

2. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Separately

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This seemingly simple step is crucial because it ensures that the baking soda is evenly distributed throughout the batter. Even distribution of baking soda is vital for the proper rise and overall texture of your classic banana bread recipe. Nobody wants a dense, flat banana bread!

3. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, for the most important part: gently add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until *just* combined. Be very careful not to overmix the batter, as this can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough, dense bread. Gently fold the ingredients together using a spatula until there are no more streaks of flour visible. Remember, a light hand is key to achieving that perfect moist banana bread texture we’re all craving. For a savory option for dinner, try this Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry!

4. Bake the Banana Bread

Carefully pour the batter into a greased and floured loaf pan (or use baking spray for easy release). Then, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 50-60 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If the toothpick comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached, the bread is ready. If it comes out with wet batter, continue baking for a few more minutes and check again. Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from sticking to the pan and ensures your homemade banana bread is perfectly baked and easy to slice. For more detailed baking information, you can visit Live Well Bake Often’s classic banana bread recipe.

6. Tips for the Perfect Banana Bread

Here are some extra tips and tricks to ensure your banana bread is a resounding success!

• Use overripe bananas: We can’t stress this enough! The riper, the better for flavor and moisture.
• Don’t overmix: Overmixing leads to tough bread. Mix until just combined.
• Add mix-ins: Get creative! Chocolate chips, chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans), dried fruit, or even a swirl of Nutella can elevate your banana bread.
• Cool completely: Resist the urge to slice into it right away! Letting the bread cool completely before slicing prevents it from crumbling and allows the flavors to meld together.

7. Variations and Additions

Want to add your own signature twist? Consider adding chocolate chips (dark, milk, or white!), walnuts, pecans, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a swirl of creamy peanut butter to your classic banana bread. You can also experiment with different warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a hint of cardamom for a truly unique and comforting flavor profile. Feel free to explore our categories for more ideas, such as breakfast and brunch, dinner, or even desserts for more inspiration!

8. Serving Suggestions

Moist banana bread is absolutely divine on its own, but it’s even more irresistible when served warm with a pat of melting butter, a dollop of freshly whipped cream, or a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. It also makes a wonderful addition to a brunch spread, a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family, or a comforting treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. And don’t forget, we have recipes for salads, soups, and even beef recipes if you are looking for something besides baking!

9. Conclusion

This easy banana bread recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a staple in your baking repertoire. With its simple, wholesome ingredients, clear and easy-to-follow instructions, and endless possibilities for customization, you’ll be enjoying a slice of warm, fragrant homemade banana bread in no time. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ripe bananas, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a baking adventure! You’re just a few simple steps away from creating a truly exceptional treat that will delight your senses and warm your heart.

Classic Banana Bread

---

• Author: Serena Miller
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This classic banana bread recipe delivers the ultimate comfort food experience. Learn how to make moist and delicious banana bread with simple ingredients, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Transform overripe bananas into a loaf of pure delight with this easy-to-follow guide.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan.
2. Mash the ripe bananas in a large bowl until mostly smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Slice and serve.

Notes

• For best results, use overripe bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and moisture.
• Don’t overmix the batter to avoid a tough bread. Mix until just combined.
• Add nuts, chocolate chips, or other mix-ins for extra flavor and texture.
• Store cooled banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 250 Kcal
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: banana bread, classic banana bread, homemade banana bread, moist banana bread, easy banana bread recipe, overripe bananas, breakfast bread, snack, dessert