The Best Homemade Simple Banana Bread Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade banana bread is a treat you’ll want to make again and again, thanks to its simplicity and delicious flavor. It’s perfect for using up overripe bananas**, turning them into something sweet and satisfying. The recipe is easy to follow, even for beginners, with clear steps and common pantry ingredients. You’ll love the moist, tender texture**, which pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.
Recipe
Banana bread is a classic, comforting treat that’s perfect for using up overripe bananas. This easy recipe yields a moist, flavorful loaf with a tender crumb and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4×8-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas and melted butter.
- Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.
- Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture and blend well.
- Gently fold in the flour until just combined—avoid overmixing.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
- Overripe bananas with brown spots work best for sweetness and moisture.
Equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Loaf pan
- Whisk or fork
Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 50–60 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 1 loaf (8–10 slices)
Nutrition
Banana bread is a delightful treat that also offers some nutritional benefits. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per slice:
| Calories | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) | Fat (g) | Fiber (g) | Sugar (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 196 | 3.6 | 34 | 6.3 | 1.6 | 15 |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my banana bread with a generous spread of creamy butter—it melts into the warm slices so perfectly. Fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or bananas, adds a sweet, revitalizing contrast. It’s such a simple combo that makes every bite even more delicious.
Creamy Butter Spread
A warm slice of banana bread deserves the perfect partner, and that’s where a creamy butter spread comes in. I love how it melts into every nook and cranny, adding a rich, velvety texture that complements the bread’s sweetness. Softened butter works best—I usually let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. For an extra touch, I’ll mix in a bit of honey or cinnamon for flavor. It’s simple, but trust me, it makes a world of difference. Spread it generously, and you’ll have a bite that feels indulgent yet comforting, like a hug for your taste buds.
Fresh Fruit Pairings
While banana bread shines on its own, pairing it with fresh fruit can take your snack or breakfast to the next level. I love slicing up ripe strawberries or juicy blueberries to add a burst of sweetness and color to each bite. Berries, like raspberries or blackberries, also work beautifully, balancing the bread’s rich flavor with a slight tang. For a tropical twist, I’ll add chunks of pineapple or mango, which remind me of summer mornings. Sliced peaches or nectarines are another favorite, offering a soft, juicy contrast. Experiment with seasonal fruits to keep it fresh and exciting—it’s a treat every time!
