Classic Banana Bread is a timeless recipe that’s soft, moist, and full of rich banana flavor. This easy-to-make bread is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. Made with simple ingredients, this banana bread can be customized with optional add-ins like walnuts or cinnamon for an extra flavor twist. It’s a great way to use up ripe bananas, creating a deliciously comforting treat that everyone will love. Follow this step-by-step guide to baking the best banana bread from scratch!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• For the Banana Bread:
  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1/3 cup melted butter
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas and Mix Wet Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth.
2. Add the melted butter and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

1. Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the banana mixture, and stir to combine.
2. Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the bread dense.
3. If you’d like, fold in the chopped nuts and cinnamon for extra texture and flavor.

Step 4: Pour and Bake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
2. Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
3. Enjoy your banana bread warm or at room temperature. For an extra touch, serve with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Note: Based on approximately 12 servings

• Calories: ~180 kcal
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 11g
• Protein: 3g
• Sodium: 150mg

FAQs:

Q: Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
A: Yes! Just thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing. Frozen bananas often add extra moisture, resulting in an even softer bread.

Q: How can I make this banana bread vegan?
A: Substitute the egg with a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds + 3 tablespoons water, mixed and set aside to thicken). Use dairy-free butter or coconut oil as well.

Q: Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins?
A: Absolutely! Chocolate chips, raisins, or shredded coconut make great additions. Add up to 1/2 cup of mix-ins to customize your bread.

Q: How do I know when the banana bread is done?
A: Insert a toothpick or skewer into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is done. If there’s wet batter, bake for another 5-10 minutes and check again.

Tips for Making Perfect Banana Bread:

1. Use Ripe Bananas: The riper, the better! Bananas with brown spots are perfect, as they bring out the natural sweetness and flavor.
2. Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense, tough bread. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
3. Add a Touch of Spice: Adding cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
4. Customize Your Add-Ins: Chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even blueberries add extra flavor and texture.
5. Use a Toothpick Test: Every oven is slightly different, so use the toothpick test to check doneness rather than relying solely on time.

Storage Tips:

Refrigerator: Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Wrap the bread in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it moist.

Freezer: Banana bread freezes well. Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil or a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating Tip: For warm banana bread, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a toaster oven.

Conclusion:

Classic Banana Bread is a delightful recipe that brings warmth and comfort to any kitchen. This easy-to-make bread is full of rich banana flavor and a tender crumb, with optional additions like nuts or cinnamon for an added twist. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this homemade banana bread will be a favorite for everyone. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy a homemade treat that’s both satisfying and nostalgic. Give this recipe a try and savor every slice of this classic, delicious bread!