Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe

Introduction

This easy banana bread recipe is a classic favorite that’s moist, flavorful, and perfect for using up ripe bananas. With a subtle hint of cinnamon and a lovely crunch from walnuts or chocolate chips, it makes a delicious snack or breakfast treat.

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, optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (177℃). Lightly grease and flour an 8.5×4.5-inch loaf pan or spray it with baking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas with the melted butter. Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, then stir well using a large wooden spoon.
3. Step 3: Sprinkle the baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt evenly over the banana mixture. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
4. Step 4: Add the all-purpose flour and the chopped walnuts or chocolate chips if using. Stir just until no streaks of flour remain to avoid overmixing.
5. Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. If desired, sprinkle extra walnuts or chocolate chips on top before baking.
6. Step 6: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Step 7: Slice into 10 thick pieces and enjoy your homemade banana bread!

Tips & Variations

• For extra moisture, substitute half the butter with Greek yogurt or sour cream.
• Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds, or try dried fruits like raisins for a different texture.
• Use dark chocolate chips or add a swirl of peanut butter for a twist on the classic flavor.
• If you prefer a spicier bread, increase the cinnamon or add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger.

Storage

Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm slices in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds until soft.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, frozen bananas work well. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing to avoid a too-wet batter.

How can I make this banana bread vegan?

Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based butter or oil. Make sure your chocolate chips are dairy-free if using them.

Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 80 reviews

• Author: anna
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 10 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe is a moist, flavorful classic that’s simple to make and perfect for using ripe bananas. With a tender crumb, a hint of cinnamon, and the option to add walnuts or chocolate chips, this banana bread is a delicious treat for breakfast, snack, or dessert.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Banana Bread Batter

• 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)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (177℃). Lightly grease and flour an 8.5×4.5-inch loaf pan or spray it with baking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas thoroughly, then stir in the melted butter. Add the granulated sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, and mix well using a large wooden spoon until combined.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle the baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt evenly over the banana mixture. Stir gently to incorporate these ingredients.
4. Incorporate Flour and Mix-ins: Add the all-purpose flour and chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the wet mixture. Stir just until the flour disappears and no streaks remain, being careful not to overmix.
5. Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top if needed. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve: Remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer the loaf onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing into 10 thick pieces. Serve and enjoy.

Notes

• Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter.
• Walnuts can be replaced with chocolate chips or omitted for nut-free preferences.
• Storage: Keep the banana bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
• Freezing: Slice and freeze banana bread in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
• Category: Baking
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: banana bread, easy banana bread, banana bread recipe, moist banana bread, banana walnut bread, quick bread