Super moist, EASY, and delicious, this is the Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe ever! It’s perfect for using up overripe bananas and is a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether it’s breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this banana bread delivers an irresistible flavor and texture that everyone will love. Plus, it freezes well, making it a convenient option for busy days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this banana bread batter ready to bake in no time.
- Versatile Ingredients: This recipe allows for substitutions such as walnuts or chocolate chips, catering to different tastes.
- Moist and Flavorful: The use of ripe bananas ensures your banana bread is incredibly moist and packed with natural sweetness.
- Freezer Friendly: Bake extra loaves to freeze for later enjoyment without sacrificing quality or flavor.
- Family Favorite: This recipe is sure to become a beloved dish among family and friends, perfect for sharing.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools. Having these items ready will ensure a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Loaf pan (8.5×4.5 inches)
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Loaf pan: The right size helps achieve even baking and a perfect loaf shape.
- Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for the best results in baking.
Ingredients
Super moist, EASY, and delicious, this is the Best Banana Bread recipe ever! It’s our favorite way to use up overripe bananas and it freezes really well too!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas (about 2 cups mashed)
– 1/3 cup salted butter (melted)
– 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
– 1 large egg (beaten)
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups (212g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chopped walnuts (or chocolate chips, plus extra for topping if desired)
How to Make Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350℉ (177℃). Lightly grease and flour an 8.5×4.5-inch loaf pan or spray it with baking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl:
1. Combine the mashed bananas with the melted butter.
2. Add the granulated sugar, beaten egg, and pure vanilla extract.
3. Stir well with a large wooden spoon until fully combined.
Step 3: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Sprinkle the following over the banana mixture:
1. Baking soda
2. Baking powder
3. Ground cinnamon
4. Salt
Stir until everything is well mixed.
Step 4: Incorporate Flour and Nuts/Chips
Add the all-purpose flour along with chopped walnuts or chocolate chips if desired:
1. Stir just until no streaks of flour remain.
2. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Step 5: Bake Your Banana Bread
Bake in your preheated oven for 50-60 minutes:
1. Check doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
2. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice into thick pieces and enjoy your delicious banana bread!
How to Serve Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe
Serving banana bread can be a delightful experience. With its moist texture and rich flavor, it pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its taste.
Classic Spread Options
- Butter: A simple spread of butter adds richness and smoothness.
- Cream Cheese: Cream cheese brings a tangy contrast that complements the sweetness.
- Nut Butter: Almond or peanut butter provides a nutty flavor and protein boost.
Creative Toppings
- Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey adds natural sweetness and moisture.
- Fresh Fruits: Slices of strawberries or blueberries add freshness and color to your plate.
- Yogurt: A dollop of yogurt offers a creamy texture that balances the bread’s sweetness.
Beverage Pairings
- Coffee: A hot cup of coffee enhances the flavor profile and makes for a comforting pairing.
- Tea: Herbal or black tea can provide a soothing complement to your banana bread slice.
How to Perfect Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe
To achieve the best results with your banana bread, follow these helpful tips for an even more delicious outcome.
- Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until combined to keep your banana bread tender and light.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick; when it comes out clean, your banana bread is perfectly baked.
- Cool Properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to avoid sogginess.
Best Side Dishes for Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your banana bread can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and nutrients alongside the sweet bread.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries makes for a wholesome breakfast option.
- Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal provides fiber and complements the flavors of banana bread well.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein and create a balanced meal with the sweet bread.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy pudding offers healthy fats and pairs beautifully with banana flavors.
- Smoothie Bowl: A colorful smoothie bowl filled with fruits can provide a refreshing contrast to banana bread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your banana bread even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
Skipping overripe bananas: Using under ripe bananas will not provide the sweet flavor your banana bread needs. Always use bananas that are brown and soft for the best results.
Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense banana bread. Mix just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
Not measuring ingredients accurately: Improper measurements can affect the texture of your banana bread. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially with flour.
Neglecting to preheat the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can result in uneven cooking. Preheat your oven fully before placing your loaf inside for consistent baking.
Using a cold loaf pan: A cold pan can hinder rising. Make sure your loaf pan is at room temperature before pouring in the batter.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Place a paper towel inside the container to absorb excess moisture.
Freezing Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months; label with the date for reference.
Reheating Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a bit of butter if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some answers to common questions about this recipe:
How do I ensure my Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe is moist?
Using overripe bananas is key, as they provide moisture and sweetness. Also, be careful not to overbake!
Can I substitute any ingredients in this banana bread recipe?
Yes! You can use plant-based butter instead of salted butter and swap walnuts for chocolate chips if preferred.
What should I do if I don’t have all-purpose flour?
You can substitute whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend, but adjust liquids as needed since these may absorb moisture differently.
How long does this banana bread last?
When stored properly, it lasts about one week in the refrigerator or up to three months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
The Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe is simple yet delicious, making it perfect for any occasion. Its moist texture and rich flavor appeal to everyone. Feel free to customize with nuts, chocolate chips, or spices to create your ideal version.
Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe! Perfectly moist and bursting with flavor, this delightful treat is your go-to solution for overripe bananas. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, as a snack, or dessert, this banana bread will quickly become a family favorite. It’s incredibly versatile—add walnuts or chocolate chips to customize it to your liking—and it freezes well, making it a convenient option for busy days. Follow these simple steps to whip up a loaf that’s sure to impress!
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 3–4 ripe bananas (about 2 cups mashed)
- 1/3 cup salted butter (melted)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and lightly grease an 8.5×4.5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas and mix in the melted butter.
- Add sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract; stir until combined.
- Sprinkle in the baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt; mix well.
- Gradually fold in the flour and incorporate walnuts or chocolate chips until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a knife inserted comes out clean.
- Allow cooling in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Use very ripe bananas for maximum moisture and sweetness. Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins like dried fruit or seeds. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week or freeze for three months.