Simple Banana Bread

Name: Simple Banana Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
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: Golden Kitchen

This Simple Banana Bread recipe is a quick and easy way to use up overripe bananas. It's moist, delicious, and perfect for breakfast or a snack!

Created by

Bethan Rowcroft

Last updated on 2025-12-30T19:49:34.450Z

This Simple Banana Bread is a family favorite that has been passed down through generations. It's a comforting treat that fills the kitchen with a delightful aroma as it bakes.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Moist and flavorful with the perfect banana taste
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert

The Benefits of Baking with Bananas

Bananas are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. They are a great source of potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, making banana bread a healthier choice for a quick snack or breakfast option. Using overripe bananas in your recipes helps reduce food waste and adds natural sweetness, minimizing the need for added sugars. This makes your banana bread not only tasty but also a bit lighter on calories.

Moreover, bananas lend a unique flavor and texture to baked goods. Their natural moistness ensures that your banana bread stays tender and soft, even after a few days. The combination of bananas with warm spices, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, can elevate the flavor profile, making your banana bread even more delightful.

Tips for Perfect Banana Bread

To achieve the best results with your banana bread, select bananas that are very ripe, with plenty of brown spots. The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. If you’re short on time, you can speed up the ripening process by placing unripe bananas in a brown paper bag for a day or two.

When mixing your ingredients, be cautious not to overmix the batter after adding the flour. Overmixing can lead to tougher bread, so stir until just combined. For an added touch, consider folding in nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to customize your banana bread to your liking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious 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

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your banana bread:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter.

Add Dry Ingredients

Mix in the baking soda and salt. Then add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until combined. Finally, add the flour and mix until just combined.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for 50 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 warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.

Storing Your Banana Bread

To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider refrigerating it, which can keep it good for up to a week. For longer storage, banana bread freezes exceptionally well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to three months. Simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it in the oven before serving.

When storing banana bread, be mindful of the climate in your area. In humid conditions, it may be best to store the bread in the refrigerator to prevent mold growth. If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or discoloration, it's best to discard it.

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. For a delightful breakfast, serve slices warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. Pair it with a side of yogurt and fresh fruit for a balanced meal. Alternatively, toast slices for a few minutes to enhance their flavor and texture, then top with peanut butter or cream cheese for a delicious twist.

You can also use banana bread as a base for desserts. Consider making a banana bread pudding by cutting the bread into cubes and soaking them in a mixture of eggs, milk, and spices before baking. This transforms your simple banana bread into an indulgent treat that’s perfect for gatherings or special occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just thaw them out and mash them before using.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?

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

→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?

You can add cinnamon, nuts, or chocolate chips for extra flavor.