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!
1/2cupsugaruse coconut sugar or honey for a healthier option
1/4cupunsalted buttermelted (dairy-free butter for a vegan option)
2large eggsor flax eggs for a vegan version
1/2teaspoonvanilla extract
1teaspoonbaking soda
1/4teaspoonsalt
1/4teaspooncinnamonoptional
1/2cupchocolate chipsoptional
1/2cupchopped walnuts or pecansoptional
Instructions
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-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.