Homemade Banana Bread Recipe

Name: Homemade Banana Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 3/4 cup sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This Homemade Banana Bread Recipe is a delightful way to use up overripe bananas, creating a moist and flavorful loaf that everyone will love.

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2025-12-31T16:49:07.471Z

There's nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked banana bread wafting through the house. This recipe has been passed down through generations and is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Moist texture that melts in your mouth
Sweet banana flavor with a hint of cinnamon
Perfect for breakfast or a quick snack

      

The Perfect Use for Overripe Bananas

Banana bread is the ultimate solution for those overripe bananas sitting on your countertop. Instead of tossing them out, transform them into a delicious loaf that boasts a sweet, rich flavor. The natural sugars in the bananas intensify as they ripen, making them ideal for baking. Each bite of this banana bread captures that sweet essence, ensuring that nothing goes to waste while treating yourself to a delightful snack or breakfast option.

Not only does this recipe help reduce food waste, but it also allows you to customize the flavors. Add in nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to create your own twist on this timeless classic. Every variation offers a unique taste experience while retaining the moist texture and rich banana flavor that makes banana bread so beloved.

Health Benefits of Bananas

Bananas are more than just a sweet treat; they are packed with nutrients and health benefits. Rich in potassium, bananas help regulate blood pressure and support heart health. They are also a great source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and fiber, contributing to overall wellness. When you indulge in banana bread, you’re not just enjoying a delicious baked good, but you're also incorporating these valuable nutrients into your diet.

Moreover, the fiber in bananas can aid digestion and promote a feeling of fullness, making this banana bread a satisfying option. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, you can feel good knowing that you’re fueling your body with wholesome ingredients.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your banana bread turns out perfectly every time, there are a few key baking tips to keep in mind. First, always use ripe bananas; the browner, the better! Overripe bananas have a stronger flavor and provide natural sweetness, minimizing the need for added sugar. Additionally, be careful not to overmix your batter; mixing just until the ingredients are combined will help maintain a light and fluffy texture.

It’s also essential to check your oven’s temperature with an oven thermometer, as variations can affect baking times. If your banana bread starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking. These simple techniques will help you achieve a perfect loaf every time.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
3/4 cup sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour

Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter. Mix in the baking soda and salt. Add sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, and mix well. Finally, stir in the flour until just incorporated.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Remove from oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious homemade banana bread!

Storing Your Banana Bread

Once your banana bread has cooled completely, proper storage is key to keeping it fresh. You can store it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. For longer storage, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in the refrigerator, where it can last up to a week. Alternatively, you can freeze banana bread slices for up to three months; just make sure to wrap each slice individually to prevent freezer burn.

When you're ready to enjoy frozen banana bread, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds. This way, you can enjoy your delicious homemade treat whenever the craving strikes!

Creative Variations to Try

While the classic banana bread recipe is delightful on its own, there are numerous creative variations you can try to mix things up. Consider adding a half-cup of walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the soft bread. For a chocolate lover's twist, fold in half a cup of chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a rich, chocolatey flavor.

You could also experiment with spices by adding a teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger for a warm, spiced bread. If you enjoy a tropical flair, try incorporating shredded coconut or pineapple. Each variation offers an exciting new way to savor this classic loaf!

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Enjoy a warm slice for breakfast, spread with a pat of butter or a dollop of cream cheese for an indulgent treat. It also pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect afternoon snack.

For a fun dessert option, consider toasting slices and topping them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of honey. You can even transform banana bread into a decadent French toast by dipping slices in an egg mixture and cooking them on a skillet. The possibilities are endless, making this banana bread a delightful addition to any meal or occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw the bananas first and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?

You can add walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.