If you’re looking for a simple, moist, and flavorful banana bread recipe, you’ve come to the right place! This easy banana bread recipe will be your go-to for overripe bananas, providing the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this step-by-step guide will help you bake a delicious loaf every time.
Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread
Banana bread is a timeless classic that’s not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Enjoy it as a snack, for breakfast, or even as a dessert. Plus, it’s the perfect way to use up ripe bananas that are too soft for eating!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar (you can adjust based on sweetness preference)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Banana Bread
1. Preheat Your Oven
Before starting, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash your ripe bananas using a fork. You want them smooth, but a few lumps are fine to give your banana bread extra texture.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
To the mashed bananas, add the melted butter, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture. Stir until just combined, but don’t overmix.
5. Add Sugar
Now, mix in the sugar. You can adjust the amount depending on how sweet you like your banana bread.
6. Pour into the Loaf Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even finish.
7. Bake the Banana Bread
Bake the banana bread for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.
8. Cool and Serve
Let your banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Banana Bread
- Use ripe bananas: The riper, the better! Overripe bananas give banana bread that extra moisture and sweetness.
- Customize your loaf: Add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruits like raisins for a twist.
- Store properly: Keep your banana bread wrapped in plastic wrap or foil at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to three months.
Related Recipes
Looking for more delicious baked goods? Try our Carrot Slice Baklava
For more information on the history and origins of banana bread, you can check out this link.