There is a reason why banana bread is one of the most popular baked goods in the world. This Moist Banana Bread Recipe is easy, reliable, and absolutely delicious. It transforms spotty, overripe bananas into a golden, sweet loaf that is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. This is, without a doubt, the best banana bread recipe for bakers of all skill levels.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Incredible Texture
The holy grail of banana bread is a loaf that is cooked through but remains moist and tender. This recipe uses a high ratio of banana and fat (butter or oil) to ensure the crumb is soft and never dry. It stays fresh for days on the counter.
One-Bowl Wonder
You don’t need a stand mixer or even a hand mixer for this recipe. Just a bowl, a fork for mashing, and a spoon for mixing. It creates minimal cleanup, making it a stress-free baking project.
Ingredients
- 3 medium Ripe bananas, mashed
- 0.33 cup Melted butter
- 0.75 cup Sugar
- 1 large Egg, beaten
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1 tsp Baking soda
- 1.5 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 pinch Salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease loaf pan.
- Mash bananas in a bowl; stir in butter and sugar.
- Add egg, vanilla, baking soda, and salt.
- Gently fold in flour until just combined.
- Pour batter into pan and bake for 50-60 minutes.
Nutrition
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
The most important ingredient is very ripe bananas. They should be brown and speckled. You also need melted butter, sugar (white or brown), an egg, vanilla extract, flour, and baking soda. A pinch of salt balances the sweetness.
Smart Substitutions
You can replace the butter with vegetable oil or melted coconut oil for a dairy-free version. For a nuttier flavor, add walnuts or pecans. If you have a sweet tooth, chocolate chips are a fantastic addition. You can also use half whole-wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 4×8 or 9×5 loaf pan. Peel your bananas and mash them in a large mixing bowl until they are mostly smooth.
Cooking Phase
Add the melted butter and sugar to the mashed bananas and stir to combine. Mix in the beaten egg and vanilla. Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the wet mixture and stir. Finally, gently fold in the flour until the white streaks just disappear. Pour into the loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added! Overmixing activates the gluten and will result in a tough, rubbery loaf. Stir gently just until combined. Also, check the bread at the 50-minute mark; if the top is getting too dark, tent it with foil.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using yellow or green bananas will result in a bland, dry bread. You need the sugars from the ripening process. Also, ovens vary, so rely on the toothpick test—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice thickly and serve warm with a pat of salted butter.
Pairing Suggestions
This bread is perfect with coffee or tea. If you enjoy baking simple, rewarding treats, you should also try Leah’s Best 18th Birthday Cake for your next special occasion—it shares that same homemade, comforting quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1? How do I store banana bread?
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature for up to 4 days. Storing it in the fridge can dry it out.
Q2? Can I freeze this recipe?
Absolutely. Wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap, then foil. It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw on the counter before serving.
Q3? Why is my banana bread soggy in the middle?
It likely needs more time in the oven. If the outside is done but the inside isn’t, lower the oven temp slightly and cover the top with foil to let the center cook without burning the crust.
Conclusion
This Moist Banana Bread Recipe Easy is a classic for a reason. It is simple, satisfying, and fills your kitchen with the most amazing aroma. Don’t let those old bananas go to waste—turn them into the best banana bread recipe you’ll ever taste.
| Healthy Swap | Use Honey instead of Sugar |
|---|---|
| Texture Boost | Add 1/2 cup Walnuts |
| Decadent | Add 1/2 cup Dark Chocolate Chips |
