Best Ever Banana Bread
Discover the secret to the Best Ever Banana Bread! This easy recipe is moist, flavorful, and perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 3 medium ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/2 cups)
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and mashed bananas, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense. Fold in any optional add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
Notes and Tips for the Best Banana Bread
-
Use Overripe Bananas:
The riper the bananas, the better! Bananas with brown spots are naturally sweeter and more flavorful, which enhances the bread's taste and texture. -
Don’t Overmix the Batter:
Stir the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can make the bread dense and tough. -
Measure Flour Properly:
Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents adding too much flour, which can make the bread dry. -
Room Temperature Ingredients:
Ensure eggs are at room temperature for even mixing, and allow melted butter to cool slightly before adding to the batter. -
Enhance the Flavor:
A teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg can add a subtle depth of flavor. For a nutty twist, fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans. -
Line the Pan:
Grease your loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal and a perfectly shaped loaf. -
Check for Doneness:
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. Avoid overbaking to keep the bread moist. -
Cool Properly:
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps it set and prevents crumbling. -
Make It Your Own:
Add chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or a swirl of peanut butter for a personalized touch. -
Freezing Tip:
Wrap cooled slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.