Description
This simple banana bread recipe is perfect for any day! Super moist, packed with flavor, and made with ripe bananas, it’s a foolproof way to bake something delicious at home. Great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. You’ll love how easy it is to make—no fancy ingredients needed. Ready to become your new go-to recipe? Bake it once, and you’ll want it again and again. Pin now and try it later!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 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
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This crucial step ensures your banana bread bakes evenly and beautifully. A properly heated oven makes a significant difference, giving your loaf that golden, crisp exterior.
While the oven warms up, grab your trusty loaf pan. Grease it lightly with butter or line it with parchment paper. This step prevents your bread from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, leaving you more time to enjoy your delicious creation.
In a mixing bowl, peel those ripe bananas and mash them into a smooth mixture with a fork. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Imagine the sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen as you work!
In a separate bowl, mix together eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined. The melted butter adds richness, while the vanilla brings a delightful fragrance. This is where the magic of flavors truly begins to meld!
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Incorporating these dry ingredients ensures an even distribution of leavening power throughout your banana bread. Stir well and watch as the components come together in perfect harmony.
Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your banana bread dense. The batter should be slightly lumpy, ensuring a tender loaf that’s full of flavor.
If you’re feeling adventurous, now is the time to add in goodies like chopped nuts or chocolate chips. Stir them in gently, picturing how delightful they will be in each bite. This is your banana bread, so make it uniquely yours!
Carefully pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Use a spatula to smooth the top if needed. It’s time to admire your handiwork; the anticipation of that first slice is exciting!
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. The sweet scent of bananas will fill your kitchen, teasing your taste buds. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.
Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing, as this helps the flavors settle beautifully. Enjoy your labor of love with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey!
Notes
Ripe Bananas Matter
The ripeness of your bananas is key to achieving the best flavor. Dark, speckled bananas are perfect for this recipe, as they will add natural sweetness and moisture.
Storage Tips
Store your banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it well in plastic wrap and freeze it, ensuring you have a slice of deliciousness ready whenever the craving strikes!
Customization is Fun
Feel free to experiment with flavorings by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. You can also switch up the mix-ins. The joy of this recipe is in making it your own!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
Keywords: Banana Bread