Description
This classic banana bread recipe is moist, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for using up ripe bananas, it combines simple pantry ingredients to create a comforting and delicious dessert or snack. Optional additions like walnuts or chocolate chips add extra texture and taste, making it a versatile favorite for all skill levels.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Mash Bananas and Mix Butter: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Stir in the melted butter until well combined.
- Add Sugar, Egg, and Vanilla: Mix in the granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and the batter is smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle the baking soda, salt, and optional ground cinnamon over the wet mixture. Stir gently to combine evenly.
- Add Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing just until incorporated to avoid overmixing, which can make the bread tough.
- Incorporate Optional Add-ins: Fold in walnuts or chocolate chips if using, ensuring they are evenly dispersed throughout the batter.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing to preserve texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
- Substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
- Add two tablespoons of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the batter for extra moisture and a tender crumb.
