Classic banana bread is known for its delicious, moist, and slightly sweet flavor. The ripe bananas provide natural sweetness, and the combination of ingredients, including butter, vanilla, and a touch of sugar, adds richness and depth to the flavor.
The texture is often soft and tender, with a slight crust on the outside. The optional addition of nuts or chocolate chips can add an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Whether enjoyed warm out of the oven or at room temperature, banana bread is a comforting and delightful treat.
If you love the taste of ripe bananas and enjoy baked goods with a homely, comforting feel, you’re likely to find classic banana bread delicious.
It’s a versatile and timeless recipe that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Feel free to experiment with the recipe to suit your preferences and enjoy your homemade banana bread!
Classic Banana Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 to 4 ripe bananas mashed
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- A pinch of salt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg beaten
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan.
- Mash the Bananas:In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:Add melted butter to the mashed bananas and mix well. Stir in the beaten egg and vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. If you're adding nuts, fold them into the batter.
- Pour Batter into the Pan:Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake:Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 to 75 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary, so start checking around the 50-minute mark.
- Cool:Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and Serve:Once cooled, slice the banana bread and serve. It's delicious on its own or spread with butter or cream cheese.
- Optional: Add Chocolate Chips or RaisinsFor variations, you can add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or raisins to the batter.
- Storage:Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or refrigerate for longer shelf life.