Classic Moist Banana Bread Recipe

Name: Classic Moist Banana Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1 loaf
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

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This Classic Moist Banana Bread Recipe is the perfect way to use up overripe bananas. It's moist, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, making it a favorite for breakfast or dessert.

Created by

Ottilie James

Last updated on 2025-12-28T20:46:12.555Z

This banana bread recipe has been passed down through generations. It's a simple yet delicious way to enjoy ripe bananas, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich banana flavor that satisfies your sweet tooth
Moist texture that stays fresh for days
Easy to customize with nuts or chocolate chips

      

The Perfect Use for Overripe Bananas

If you find yourself with overripe bananas sitting on your countertop, don’t toss them out! This Classic Moist Banana Bread Recipe offers a delicious way to transform those brown bananas into a delightful treat. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas enhances the flavor of the bread, making it a perfect option for breakfast or a snack. Plus, it's an excellent way to minimize food waste while enjoying homemade goodness.

Bananas are not only tasty but also packed with essential nutrients. They provide potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, making this banana bread a more wholesome choice compared to many sugary desserts. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a loaf that satisfies your sweet cravings and nourishes your body.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of this banana bread recipe is its versatility. While the classic version is undeniably 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 an indulgent touch. Both options complement the rich banana flavor beautifully, making every bite a special treat.

If you want to experiment further, try incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an aromatic twist. You could also substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a banana bread that’s uniquely yours.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your banana bread is baked and cooled, storing it properly will help maintain its moist texture and flavor. Wrap the loaf in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing slices. Simply wrap them individually and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thawing a slice in the microwave or at room temperature is quick and easy, making it a convenient option for busy mornings.

Banana bread can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it plain, slathered with butter, or topped with cream cheese for an extra indulgent treat. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon snack. Regardless of how you enjoy it, this banana bread is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread

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

Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 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. Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Finally, stir in the flour until just incorporated.

Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious banana bread warm or at room temperature!

Health Benefits of Bananas

Bananas are often hailed as a superfood, and for good reason. They are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, particularly potassium, which is vital for maintaining heart health and regulating blood pressure. Additionally, the fiber content in bananas aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer, making this banana bread not just a treat but a more balanced option.

The natural sugars in ripe bananas provide a quick source of energy, making banana bread an excellent choice for breakfast or a pre-workout snack. When you bake with bananas, you also reduce the need for added sugars, allowing you to enjoy a sweet treat that’s less processed and more nutritious.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your banana bread turns out denser than expected, it might be due to overmixing the batter. Mixing flour too much can develop gluten, resulting in a heavy loaf. To achieve that desirable moist texture, mix just until the flour is incorporated, and don’t worry about small lumps. They’ll disappear during baking.

Another common issue is under-baking or over-baking. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your banana bread as it bakes. Using a toothpick to check for doneness is a reliable method; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready to come out of the oven. Remember that the bread will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.

Creative Serving Ideas

Elevate your banana bread experience by trying it toasted with a spread of almond butter or hazelnut spread. This adds a lovely nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the bananas. Additionally, you can serve slices alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt to create a more balanced meal.

For a fun brunch idea, consider using banana bread as the base for a French toast. Dipping slices in an egg mixture and frying them until golden brown creates a deliciously rich twist on a classic breakfast dish. Top with syrup or fresh berries for an indulgent treat that will impress family and friends.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Absolutely! Walnuts or pecans make a great addition. Just fold them in at the end.

→ What can I serve with banana bread?

You can serve it plain, with butter, or even cream cheese for a delightful treat.