The Ultimate Banana Bread Recipe – Moist, Easy, and Delicious
This banana bread recipe is the perfect way to turn overripe bananas into a moist, flavorful treat. Packed with natural sweetness and a hint of warm spices, this recipe is a timeless favorite for breakfast, dessert, or a quick snack. With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you’ll have a loaf of golden-brown banana bread ready in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Moist and Delicious: Thanks to the overripe bananas and just the right balance of wet and dry ingredients.
- Simple to Make: Requires no fancy equipment or advanced techniques.
- Versatile: Perfect on its own or paired with nuts, chocolate chips, or spices.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves: 8-10
- 3 large overripe bananas (mashed) 🍌
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted) 🧈
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs 🥚
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)
Equipment for the Recipe
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Whisk and spatula
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
Step 3: Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Use a fork or potato masher for the best results.
Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients
Add the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk until well combined.
Step 5: Add the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
Step 6: Fold in Add-Ons
If using walnuts or chocolate chips, fold them into the batter at this stage.
Step 7: Bake the Banana Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
The Ultimate Banana Bread Recipe – Moist, Easy, and Delicious
Ingredients
- 3 large overripe bananas mashed
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
- Mash the bananas in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
- Add melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
- If using walnuts or chocolate chips, fold them into the batter at this stage.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Expert Tips for the Perfect Banana Bread
- Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the bread dense. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
- Check Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is ready.
- Store Properly: Wrap in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.
Flavor Variations and Add-Ons
Flavor Variations
- Chocolate Banana Bread: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and fold in ½ cup chocolate chips.
- Nutty Banana Bread: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Coconut Banana Bread: Mix in ½ cup of shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Spread a slice with butter or cream cheese for a decadent treat.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Freeze Banana Bread?
Yes! Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour?
Yes, substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
Do I Need to Refrigerate Banana Bread?
Not necessarily. It can stay fresh at room temperature for 3 days. Refrigerate if you want it to last up to a week.
External Links
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