Simple Banana Bread

Name: Simple Banana Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 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: Classic Baking Ideas

This Simple Banana Bread recipe is perfect for using up overripe bananas and makes a deliciously moist loaf that everyone will love.

Created by

Tabitha Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-30T17:42:34.736Z

This Simple Banana Bread is a cherished family recipe that brings back memories of warm afternoons and the delightful smell of freshly baked bread. It's not only easy to make but also a great way to reduce food waste by using overripe bananas.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Moist and tender texture that’s irresistible
Simple ingredients that you likely already have
Deliciously sweet with a hint of cinnamon

      

The Perfect Use for Overripe Bananas

If you often find yourself with overripe bananas sitting on your countertop, this recipe is the perfect solution. Rather than tossing those brown bananas in the trash, transform them into a delightful loaf of banana bread. The natural sweetness and moisture of ripe bananas enhance the flavor and texture of the bread, making it irresistibly delicious.

Banana bread is not just a way to avoid waste; it's a comfort food that evokes feelings of home and warmth. Each slice offers a perfect combination of sweetness and a hint of spice, making it an ideal treat for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Plus, it’s a great way to get the kids involved in the kitchen!

Customizing Your Banana Bread

One of the best things about banana bread is its versatility. While this basic recipe is fantastic on its own, you can easily customize it to suit your taste. Consider adding a handful of walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. Chocolate chips also make a wonderful addition, giving the bread a decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.

For those who enjoy a touch of spice, try incorporating cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter. These spices complement the bananas beautifully and add depth to the flavor profile. You can also experiment with swapping out some of the sugar for honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness that pairs well with the bananas.

Storing Your Banana Bread

Once you've baked your banana bread, you'll want to know how to store it properly to maintain its freshness. Allow the loaf to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Storing it at room temperature will keep it moist for several days, but you can also refrigerate it to extend its shelf life.

If you want to keep your banana bread for longer, consider freezing it. Slice the bread and wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice of banana bread whenever the craving strikes without compromising on taste or texture.

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

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, then mix in the baking soda and salt. Next, add the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Finally, mix in the flour until just incorporated.

Bake the Bread

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

Cool and Serve

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

Frequently Asked Questions

One common question about banana bread is how to tell when it's done baking. The best way to check is by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your banana bread is ready. If there’s wet batter on the toothpick, give it a few more minutes in the oven.

Another frequent inquiry is about the ripeness of bananas. The riper the bananas, the sweeter your bread will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots or even those that are fully brown. They are perfect for achieving that rich flavor and moist texture that makes banana bread so delightful.

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your serving experience with a few simple additions. Consider slathering a slice with a bit of butter or cream cheese for added richness. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can also add a lovely touch of sweetness that complements the bananas beautifully.

For a more indulgent treat, serve your banana bread warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This combination makes for a delightful dessert that will impress your family and friends. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack that everyone will enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How can I tell when the banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is ready.