Banana bread is a classic comfort food that combines the deliciously sweet taste of ripe bananas with a moist, tender crumb. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. This recipe is an easy way to turn those overly ripe bananas sitting on your countertop into something delightful and satisfying.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60-65 minutes
- Total Time: 75-80 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 200
- Protein: 2.5 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Fat: 9 grams
- Fiber: 1.5 grams
- Sugar: 12 grams
- Sodium: 150 mg
Why Make This Banana Bread
Making banana bread at home is not only simple, but it also fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that is hard to resist. This recipe is accessible, making it perfect for novice bakers and experienced chefs alike. Plus, you can customize it to your taste with the addition of nuts, chocolate chips, or spices. It’s a wonderful way to reduce food waste by utilizing ripe bananas, and the result is a delicious loaf that’s perfect for any occasion.
How to Make 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
## Directions:
### Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your loaf pan beforehand will help you easily remove the bread once it’s baked.
### Step 2: Mixing
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter until well blended. Then, mix in the baking soda and a pinch of salt.
### Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the banana mixture. Mix well, ensuring everything is smoothly combined before finally folding in the flour.
### Step 4: Baking
Pour the batter into a greased 4×8 inch loaf pan. Bake for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once finished, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before removing it to cool completely on a wire rack.
How to Serve Banana Bread
Banana bread can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own, but you can also spread a pat of butter or cream cheese on top for an extra touch. Enjoy it with coffee for breakfast or slice it up for a delightful afternoon snack.
How to Store Banana Bread
To store banana bread, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer, where it will last for about 3 months. Just remember to let it thaw at room temperature before serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect Banana Bread
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Don’t overmix the batter, as this can make the bread tough. Mix just until the flour is incorporated.
- You can add a handful of walnuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
- For a flavor twist, sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter.
Delicious Variations
- Nutty Banana Bread: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
- Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Stir in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a sweet, indulgent treat.
- Spiced Banana Bread: Add cinnamon and a dash of nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor that pairs perfectly with the bananas.
- Healthy Banana Bread: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, frozen bananas work great! Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using. -
How can I tell when my banana bread is done?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs but no batter. -
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use a larger loaf pan or multiple pans, and keep an eye on the baking time. -
What if my bread is too dense?
Overmixing can make banana bread dense. Make sure to combine just until everything is mixed together. -
How can I make mini banana breads?
Use mini loaf pans, and reduce the baking time to about 25-30 minutes.
Conclusion
Banana bread is a delightful way to treat yourself, and this simple recipe makes it easy to whip up a delicious loaf with minimal effort. Whether you enjoy it plain or with your favorite additions, each slice brings comfort and satisfaction. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and relish in the wonderful results. Happy baking!
Print
Classic Banana Bread
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious banana bread recipe that transforms ripe bananas into a comforting treat.
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
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your loaf pan.
- Mash the ripe bananas with a fork in a mixing bowl until smooth, then stir in the melted butter.
- Mix in the baking soda and a pinch of salt.
- Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Fold in the flour until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan.
- Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool for 10 minutes in the pan before removing to cool completely on a wire rack.
Notes
Enjoy warm or at room temperature. Perfect with butter or cream cheese and great with coffee.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Protein: 2.5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
