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; 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: Simple Meals

Enjoy a slice of this delightful and moist banana bread that is perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Created by

Xenia Radcliffe

Last updated on 2025-12-30T19:13:35.189Z

This Simple Banana Bread recipe is a family favorite, cherished for its ease and delicious flavor. Perfectly ripe bananas create a moist texture, making it an ideal treat for any time of day.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Moist and flavorful with every bite
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert

      

The Joy of Homemade Banana Bread

There's something inherently comforting about a warm loaf of banana bread fresh from the oven. The sweet aroma fills your kitchen, inviting family and friends to gather around. This simple recipe transforms overripe bananas into a deliciously moist treat that everyone loves. Whether you enjoy it plain, with a smear of butter, or topped with your favorite spread, every slice offers a taste of home.

Making banana bread at home not only allows you to control the ingredients but also provides a wonderful opportunity to engage with family in the kitchen. Kids can help mash the bananas and stir the mixture, making it a fun activity that fosters creativity and togetherness. Plus, the satisfaction of baking something from scratch is unbeatable.

Storage Tips for Banana Bread

To keep your banana bread fresh and delicious, proper storage is essential. Once completely cooled, wrap the loaf in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it from drying out. It can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it for longer, consider freezing slices. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag; they can last up to three months in the freezer.

When you're ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds. This way, you can savor the delightful taste of homemade banana bread whenever the craving strikes!

Variations to Try

While this banana bread recipe is perfect as it is, don’t hesitate to get creative! You can add a variety of mix-ins to elevate the flavor. Consider incorporating walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch, or toss in some chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. Dried fruits like cranberries or raisins can add a chewy texture and a burst of flavor, making each bite exciting.

For a healthier twist, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or add some oats for extra fiber. You can also experiment with spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to give your banana bread a warm, aromatic touch. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your banana bread:

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

Make sure you have everything ready before you start mixing!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious banana bread:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.

Mash Bananas

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.

Mix Ingredients

Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas. Next, mix in the baking soda and salt. Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, and mix until combined. Finally, stir in the flour.

Bake

Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your freshly baked banana bread warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

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

Nutritional Benefits of Bananas

Bananas are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are a great source of potassium, which is vital for heart health and maintaining proper muscle function. Additionally, bananas provide vitamin C, vitamin B6, and fiber, making them a nutritious choice for snacking and baking.

Incorporating bananas into your diet can also contribute to digestive health due to their fiber content. When baked into bread, these health benefits are not lost, allowing you to enjoy a tasty treat while still nourishing your body.

Perfect Pairings

Banana bread is incredibly versatile when it comes to pairings. For breakfast, enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or tea to start your day off right. It also makes a great afternoon snack, especially when paired with a dollop of yogurt or a side of fresh fruit. This combination adds a refreshing touch and balances the sweetness of the banana bread.

If you're serving banana bread as dessert, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. The warm bread with cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast that is sure to impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Wrap it in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer storage.

→ Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?

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

→ How can I tell when the banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is done.