banana bread

This moist and flavorful banana bread is the perfect way to use up overripe bananas. With a soft, tender crumb and a hint of cinnamon, it’s a comforting treat for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. Plus, it’s easy to make with simple pantry ingredients!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super Moist & Soft – Perfect texture with just the right sweetness.
Easy to Make – One-bowl recipe with no special equipment needed.
Uses Ripe Bananas – A great way to prevent food waste.
Customizable – Add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices for variety.

Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
¾ cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar for extra moisture)
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)
½ cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mash Bananas

In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Stir in melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
Whisk until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently.
Fold in walnuts or chocolate chips if using.

Step 5: Bake the Banana Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Banana Bread

Use Overripe Bananas – The riper, the better! They add natural sweetness.
Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined to keep the bread soft and fluffy.
Room Temperature Ingredients – Helps everything blend smoothly.
Customize It – Add nuts, chocolate, or even a streusel topping.

Variations & Add-Ins

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Stir in ½ cup chocolate chips.
Nutty Banana Bread: Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts.
Banana Muffins: Divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake for 18–22 minutes.
Healthy Version: Swap ½ cup of flour for whole wheat flour and use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar.

Storage & Freezing

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Refrigerate: Keeps fresh for up to a week.
Freeze: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Recipe Without Eggs?

Yes! Substitute each egg with:

¼ cup unsweetened applesauce, or
1 flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).

Why Is My Banana Bread Dry?

It may be overbaked. Check for doneness at 50 minutes and cover loosely with foil if browning too fast.

Can I Use Frozen Bananas?

Yes! Let them thaw and drain excess liquid before mashing.

This homemade banana bread is easy, moist, and absolutely delicious. Whether you enjoy it plain, with nuts, or chocolate chips, it’s a perfect way to use up ripe bananas and make a comforting treat for any time of day. Try it today!