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1 min read · 222 words
There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked banana bread filling your kitchen. This recipe has been a family favorite for years, and it’s so simple that even beginners can nail it on the first try.
Why This Recipe Works
- Uses overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture
- No mixer needed — just a bowl and a fork
- Ready from start to finish in about 60 minutes
- Freezer-friendly for meal prep
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4×8 inch loaf pan.
- Mash the bananas in a mixing bowl until smooth.
- Stir in melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla.
- Add baking soda and salt, then fold in the flour until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 55-60 minutes.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Tips for the Best Banana Bread
The riper your bananas, the better. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots — they’re sweeter and mash more easily. You can also freeze overripe bananas and thaw them when you’re ready to bake.
For extra flavor, add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or chopped walnuts to the batter. A sprinkle of cinnamon also adds a lovely warmth.
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until mostly smooth. Stir in the melted butter.
- Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Sprinkle the baking soda, salt, and cinnamon over the mixture and stir to combine.
- Gently fold in the flour until just combined — do not overmix. Fold in the walnuts if using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy!
