Simple Banana Bread

Name: Simple Banana Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
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 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Highlighted under: Modern Cooking

A delightful and easy recipe for banana bread that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Created by

Saskia Morton

Last updated on 2025-12-30T18:46:34.797Z

This simple banana bread recipe is a family favorite. With its moist texture and rich banana flavor, it’s an excellent way to use overripe bananas.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Easy to make with simple ingredients
Moist and flavorful with ripe bananas
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert

      

The Perfect Breakfast Treat

Banana bread is a classic favorite that brings warmth and comfort to your mornings. It’s incredibly versatile, whether enjoyed on its own, paired with a cup of coffee, or toasted with a pat of butter. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas makes this recipe a healthier choice compared to many other breakfast options. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste.

Not only is banana bread delicious, but it also provides a quick source of energy to kickstart your day. Packed with nutrients from the bananas, this bread offers potassium and fiber, making it a satisfying option that can keep you full until lunchtime. Whether you're rushing out the door or lounging at home, this banana bread is the ideal companion.

Customizing Your Banana Bread

One of the best things about banana bread is its adaptability. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Consider adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch. Chocolate chips are another popular addition, turning this simple bread into a decadent treat that satisfies your sweet tooth.

For those looking to enhance the flavor, spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can add a wonderful warmth to the bread. If you're aiming for a healthier version, try substituting some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or using honey instead of sugar. With just a few tweaks, you can create a banana bread that’s uniquely yours.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your banana bread has cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing slices. Simply wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they can last for up to three months. This makes for an easy grab-and-go snack whenever you crave something sweet.

When it comes to serving, banana bread is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with toppings. A smear of cream cheese or a dollop of yogurt adds creaminess, while fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey can enhance the flavor profile. Consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this 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 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

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

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your banana bread:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Butter and Bananas

In a mixing bowl, mix the melted butter with the mashed bananas.

Add Remaining Ingredients

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

Pour into Loaf Pan

Pour the batter into a greased 4x8 inch loaf pan.

Bake

Bake for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool

Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade banana bread with butter or on its own!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.

Health Benefits of Bananas

Bananas are not only the star of this recipe but also pack a powerful nutritional punch. They are rich in potassium, which is essential for heart health and maintaining proper muscle function. Additionally, bananas are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full.

Incorporating bananas into your diet can help regulate blood sugar levels and provide sustained energy throughout the day. Their natural sugars, combined with fiber, help to slow the absorption of sugar into your bloodstream, making them a smart choice for a healthy snack or breakfast option.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your banana bread comes out too dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter. Be sure to mix only until the ingredients are just combined. This will help keep the bread light and fluffy. Another common issue is uneven baking; if your bread is browning too quickly on top, consider covering it with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.

If you find that your banana bread is too sweet, you can reduce the sugar in the recipe. The natural sweetness of the ripe bananas often means you can cut back a bit without sacrificing flavor. Experiment until you find the perfect balance that suits your taste buds.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw the frozen bananas and drain excess liquid before mashing.

→ How do I store banana bread?

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

→ Can I freeze banana bread?

Yes, banana bread freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.

→ What can I add to banana bread?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to enhance the flavor and texture.