Description

Banana bread is the perfect treat to bake when you have overripe bananas lying around. This simple, easy-to-follow recipe results in a moist and flavorful loaf that can be enjoyed any time of day. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast or a delicious snack, this banana bread recipe is bound to impress. It’s perfect for beginners and can be customized with your favorite additions like nuts or chocolate chips!

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas (the riper, the better!)
1 cup all-purpose flour (can substitute gluten-free flour)
1/2 cup sugar (use coconut sugar or honey for a healthier option)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (dairy-free butter for a vegan option)
2 large eggs (or flax eggs for a vegan version)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Mash the bananas: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. If you prefer smoother bread, you can blend them in a food processor.
Mix wet ingredients: Stir in the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract into the mashed bananas.
Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
Combine the mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Bake the banana bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For gluten-free banana bread: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.

For vegan banana bread: Use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg) and dairy-free butter.

Add-ins: For extra flavor, you can stir in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips, walnuts, or pecans.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/10 of loaf)
Calories: 210
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: Banana bread recipe, easy banana bread, homemade banana bread, moist banana bread, simple banana bread recipe