Best Banana Bread Recipe

Indulge in the comforting aroma of homemade banana bread that transforms overripe bananas into a delightful treat. This recipe balances sweetness and moisture, creating a loaf that pairs perfectly with coffee or tea. Whether enjoyed as a snack or dessert, each slice is a warm hug in every bite. Follow along for the best banana bread recipe that will become a staple in your home.

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 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes about 10 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 60 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 200 calories, 8g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 2g of protein. This information is based on a standard serving size.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
3. Stir in the melted butter into the mashed bananas.
4. Add baking soda and salt to the mixture and mix well.
5. Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.
6. Gradually mix in the flour until just combined.
7. If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts.
8. Pour the batter into a greased 4×8 inch loaf pan.
9. Bake for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
10. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, brown sugar can replace white sugar for a richer flavor, and you may use applesauce instead of butter for a lower-fat version.

Serving and Pairings

This banana bread is delicious on its own but can be served with butter, cream cheese, or a drizzle of honey. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon snack.

Storage and Reheating

Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Cooking Mistakes

• Using unripe bananas will result in less flavor.
• Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense loaf.
• Not greasing the pan properly may cause sticking.
• Opening the oven door too early can cause the bread to sink.
• Using too much flour will make the bread dry.

Helpful Tips

• Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor.
• Experiment by adding chocolate chips or dried fruits.
• Let the bread cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.
• Store leftover banana bread in the freezer to enjoy later.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for banana bread?

Yes, frozen bananas work perfectly for banana bread. Just thaw them and mash before using. They may be mushier, which is ideal for the recipe.

How do I know when my banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s done. If it has wet batter, bake a bit longer.

Can I make banana bread without eggs?

Absolutely! You can substitute one egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).

What can I do if my banana bread is too moist?

If your banana bread turns out too moist, you may have added too many bananas or not baked it long enough. You can try reducing the banana quantity or increasing baking time.

How long does banana bread last?

Banana bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, in the refrigerator for up to a week, or frozen for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This best banana bread recipe is not only simple but also incredibly satisfying. With its rich banana flavor and perfect texture, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delightful treat, perfect for any occasion.

Best Banana Bread

Indulge in the comforting aroma of homemade banana bread, perfectly moist and flavorful. This delightful treat pairs well with coffee or tea.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: banana bread, baking, dessert, quick bread, recipes

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour hour

Total Time: 1 hour hour 15 minutes minutes

Servings: 10 servings

Calories: 200kcal

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 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts optional

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
• Stir in the melted butter into the mashed bananas.
• Add baking soda and salt to the mixture and mix well.
• Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.
• Gradually mix in the flour until just combined.
• Fold in the chopped walnuts if desired.
• Pour the batter into a greased 4x8 inch loaf pan.
• Bake for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition

Calories: 200kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g | Fiber: 1g