Simple Banana Bread

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Recipes

This Simple Banana Bread recipe is perfect for using up overripe bananas and makes a delicious snack or breakfast treat.

Florence Keaton

Created by

Florence Keaton

Last updated on 2025-12-30T17:25:34.567Z

This Simple Banana Bread is moist, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. It’s a family favorite that brings warmth and comfort with every bite.

Why You'll Love This Banana Bread

  • Moist and flavorful with a rich banana taste
  • Perfectly sweet with a hint of vanilla
  • Great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert

Perfect for Overripe Bananas

Banana bread is an ideal solution for those overripe bananas that seem to linger on your kitchen counter. Instead of tossing them out, transform them into a delicious loaf that everyone will love. The natural sweetness of the bananas not only enhances the flavor of the bread but also adds moisture, making each slice tender and delightful.

Using overripe bananas is a great way to reduce food waste and enjoy a homemade treat. The browner the bananas, the sweeter they become, enriching your banana bread with a deep, rich flavor. So the next time you find those neglected bananas, remember they are just waiting to be turned into this scrumptious bread.

A Versatile Recipe

This Simple Banana Bread recipe is incredibly versatile. While the base recipe is delicious on its own, you can easily customize it to suit your taste. Consider adding chopped nuts for a delightful crunch or chocolate chips for a sweet twist. If you prefer a hint of spice, a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavors even further.

Additionally, this banana bread can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it warm with a pat of butter for breakfast, slice it for an afternoon snack, or indulge in it as a dessert. Its versatility makes it a staple in many households, perfect for any time of day.

Storing Your Banana Bread

To keep your banana bread fresh, allow it to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. Stored this way, it will stay fresh for up to four days at room temperature. If you want to extend its life, consider freezing it.

When freezing, slice the banana bread first, then wrap each piece individually. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever you crave it. Just thaw at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a quick treat. With proper storage, you can savor this delightful banana bread for weeks to come.

Ingredients

Banana Bread 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

Make sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor!

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. Mix in the baking soda and salt. Then, add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Finally, mix in the flour until just incorporated.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade banana bread!

Tips for Perfect Banana Bread

To achieve the best banana bread, use bananas that are well-ripened with plenty of brown spots. This not only enhances the flavor but also improves the texture. Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense loaf, so mix until just combined for a light and fluffy result.

Consider using a kitchen scale for measuring ingredients, especially flour. Accurate measurements can make a significant difference in the outcome of your bread. Also, ensure your baking soda is fresh; expired baking soda can affect the rise and texture of your banana bread.

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread is delightful on its own, but you can elevate your serving experience with a few simple additions. A dollop of whipped cream or a smear of cream cheese can add a creamy contrast that complements the bread’s sweetness. For a more indulgent treat, drizzle some caramel or chocolate sauce over the top.

Pair your banana bread with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or snack. You can also serve it alongside fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced meal. The combinations are endless, making this banana bread not just a recipe, but a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

Secondary image

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw and drain excess moisture before mashing.

→ How do I store banana bread?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I substitute the sugar?

You can use brown sugar or honey for a different flavor.

→ Is banana bread healthy?

While it contains sugar and flour, using whole grain flour and reducing sugar can make it healthier.

Simple Banana Bread

This Simple Banana Bread recipe is perfect for using up overripe bananas and makes a delicious snack or breakfast treat.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration60 minutes
Overall Time70 minutes

Created by: Florence Keaton

Recipe Type: Creative Baking Recipes

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 1 loaf

What You'll Need

Banana Bread Ingredients

  1. 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  2. 1/3 cup melted butter
  3. 1 teaspoon baking soda
  4. Pinch of salt
  5. 3/4 cup sugar
  6. 1 large egg, beaten
  7. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  8. 1 cup all-purpose flour

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8-inch loaf pan.

Step 02

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter. Mix in the baking soda and salt. Then, add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Finally, mix in the flour until just incorporated.

Step 03

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 200 kcal
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 14g
  • Protein: 2g