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Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe

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3.9 from 32 reviews

This Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe is a moist, flavorful loaf perfect for using ripe bananas. Enhanced with cinnamon and walnuts or chocolate chips, it’s an ideal comfort dessert or breakfast treat. With simple steps and common ingredients, you can bake a delicious homemade banana bread that yields 10 slices and is perfect for sharing.

Ingredients

Banana Bread 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. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (177℃). Lightly grease and flour an 8.5x4.5-inch loaf pan or spray it with baking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed ripe bananas with the melted butter. Then add sugar, the beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly using a large wooden spoon until well incorporated.
  3. Add Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt over the banana mixture. Stir gently to combine all dry ingredients evenly with the wet mixture.
  4. Incorporate Flour and Mix-ins: Add the all-purpose flour and the chopped walnuts or chocolate chips if using. Stir just until the flour streaks disappear, avoiding overmixing to keep the bread moist and tender.
  5. Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. You may sprinkle extra walnuts or chocolate chips on top if desired.
  6. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a knife into the center of the loaf; it should come out clean.
  7. Cool: Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Serve: Slice the banana bread into approximately 10 thick slices and serve as a delightful snack or breakfast treat.

Notes

  • Ensure bananas are very ripe for the sweetest flavor and best moisture.
  • Do not overmix after adding flour to avoid a dense texture.
  • You can substitute walnuts for chocolate chips or omit both for a plain banana bread.
  • The bread can be stored wrapped at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerated up to a week.
  • For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free butter substitute.