This Classic Banana Bread recipe is moist, soft, and full of rich banana flavor. It’s the perfect way to use very ripe bananas and create a comforting homemade treat that works for breakfast, snack time, or dessert. Simple ingredients and easy steps make this a timeless favorite.
Ingredients
3 ripe bananas (the riper, the sweeter and more flavorful)
½ cup sugar (white or brown; brown sugar adds a deeper, richer taste)
⅓ cup melted butter or vegetable oil
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional but highly recommended)
1½ cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat the oven to 170–180°C (350°F). Grease a loaf pan well or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth and creamy with minimal lumps.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Add the melted butter or oil, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Mix until well combined and smooth.
Step 4: Add Leavening and Spices
Sprinkle in the baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Stir gently to distribute evenly throughout the batter.
Step 5: Fold in the Flour
Add the flour and gently fold it into the mixture just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread soft and tender.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 7: Check for Doneness
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean, the banana bread is ready.
Step 8: Cool
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove and place on a wire rack to cool completely.
Texture and Flavor
This banana bread is moist and fluffy with a naturally sweet banana taste and a hint of warm cinnamon. The crust is lightly golden while the inside stays soft and tender.
Tips for Best Banana Bread
Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and flavor. Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added, as this can make the bread dense instead of soft.
Final Note
Classic Banana Bread is a comforting, reliable recipe that never goes out of style. Easy to customize and always satisfying, it’s a must-have in every home baker’s collection.