Classic Moist Banana Bread

why make this recipe

Classic Moist Banana Bread is a beloved staple in many households. It’s simple to prepare and requires only a few ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. This recipe is perfect for using up ripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste. The result is a sweet, moist, and flavorful bread that can be enjoyed for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. Plus, it makes your home smell amazing while it bakes!

how to make Classic Moist Banana Bread

Ingredients

  • 3 ripe bananas
  • 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
  • Optional: nuts or chocolate chips

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
  3. Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas.
  4. Mix in the baking soda and pinch of salt.
  5. Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.
  6. Mix in the flour until just incorporated.
  7. If using, fold in the nuts or chocolate chips.
  8. Pour the batter into a greased 4×8 inch loaf pan.
  9. Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  10. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

how to serve Classic Moist Banana Bread

Classic Moist Banana Bread is delicious served warm or at room temperature. You can slice it and enjoy it plain, or spread a bit of butter or cream cheese on top for extra flavor. It also pairs nicely with coffee or tea, making it a great choice for breakfast or afternoon snacks.

how to store Classic Moist Banana Bread

To store your Banana Bread, wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. You can leave it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, place it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for about 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well before freezing.

tips to make Classic Moist Banana Bread

  • Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
  • Don’t overmix the batter; mix until just combined for a lighter texture.
  • Experiment with add-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for variations.
  • If you like a sweeter bread, add a little more sugar to taste.

variation

For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. You could also substitute half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to add a bit of nutrition.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, frozen bananas work great! Just thaw them before mashing.

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

Can I make mini loaves instead of one large loaf?
Absolutely! Divide the batter into smaller loaf pans. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

Classic Moist Banana Bread

A sweet and moist banana bread that makes excellent use of ripe bananas, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3 pieces ripe bananas Use very ripe bananas for best flavor.
  • 1/3 cup melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 3/4 cup sugar Add more to taste if you prefer a sweeter bread.
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour You can substitute half for whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
Optional Add-ins
  • nuts or chocolate chips Fold in if using.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
  3. Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas.
  4. Mix in the baking soda and pinch of salt.
  5. Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.
  6. Mix in the flour until just incorporated.
  7. If using, fold in the nuts or chocolate chips.
  8. Pour the batter into a greased 4×8 inch loaf pan.
  9. Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  10. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Store the bread wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It stays fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days, in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for about 3 months. Don’t overmix the batter for a lighter texture.