Loaf of freshly baked banana bread on a wooden table

Banana Bread

ByNaya Lucas
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Why make this recipe

Banana bread is a classic treat that is beloved by many. It’s simple, delicious, and a great way to use up overripe bananas. The combination of sweet bananas, rich butter, and warm spices makes it perfect for breakfast or a snack. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for sharing!

How to make Banana Bread

Ingredients

  • 2 cups very ripe bananas, mashed (approximately 4 large bananas) (The key to a moist bread!)
  • ½ cup granulated cane sugar or packed brown sugar (Adds sweetness and depth.)
  • ½ cup melted unsalted butter or neutral vegetable oil (Richness that makes it tender.)
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature (Bonding the ingredients for a fluffy texture.)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (For a fragrant flavor boost.)
  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour (Just enough structure to hold it together.)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda (Essential for a perfect rise.)
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt (Enhances overall flavors.)
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (Brings warmth and spice.)
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (A touch of nutty sweetness.)
  • ½ cup walnuts, coarsely chopped (Adds crunch and richness.)
  • 2 tablespoons reserved walnuts for topping (For a beautiful finish.)

Directions

Preparation:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
  3. Mix in the sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Baking:
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined.
6. Fold in the walnuts, then pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
7. Sprinkle the reserved walnuts on top.
8. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cooling:
9. Remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
10. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to serve Banana Bread

Banana bread is best served sliced warm or at room temperature. Enjoy it plain, or spread a little butter or cream cheese on top for extra flavor. It’s great for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert!

How to store Banana Bread

To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw it at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Tips to make Banana Bread

  • Use very ripe bananas; the more brown spots, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
  • Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter; mix until just combined for a fluffy and tender bread.

Variation

You can add chocolate chips or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a fun twist. For a healthier option, substitute half of the flour with whole-wheat flour.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, frozen ripe bananas work great! Just thaw them and mash them before using.

2. How can I tell if my banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s done.

3. Can I make mini loaves?
Absolutely! Bake in mini loaf pans for about 30-40 minutes. Adjust the baking time as needed.

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Banana Bread

A classic and delicious treat perfect for breakfast or a snack, made with ripe bananas, butter, and warm spices.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cups very ripe bananas, mashed (approximately 4 large bananas) The key to a moist bread!
  • ½ cup granulated cane sugar or packed brown sugar Adds sweetness and depth.
  • ½ cup melted unsalted butter or neutral vegetable oil Richness that makes it tender.
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature Bonding the ingredients for a fluffy texture.
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract For a fragrant flavor boost.
  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour Just enough structure to hold it together.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda Essential for a perfect rise.
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt Enhances overall flavors.
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon Brings warmth and spice.
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg A touch of nutty sweetness.
  • ½ cup walnuts, coarsely chopped Adds crunch and richness.
  • 2 tablespoons reserved walnuts for topping For a beautiful finish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
  3. Mix in the sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Baking
  1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined.
  2. Fold in the walnuts, then pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
  3. Sprinkle the reserved walnuts on top.
  4. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooling
  1. Remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
  2. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Banana bread is best served sliced warm or at room temperature. Enjoy it plain or spread a little butter or cream cheese on top for extra flavor. To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

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