This super moist, easy, and absolutely delicious banana bread is a tried-and-true favorite! It’s one of the most popular recipes on my website for a reason—perfect for using up overripe bananas and versatile enough to freeze for later. Whether enjoyed as a snack, breakfast, or dessert, a warm slice of this banana bread (with a little butter on top) is pure comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread Recipe
Quick & Easy: Made in just one bowl with a spoon—no hand mixer required!
Kid-Friendly: Kids love helping peel and mash bananas, measure, and stir.
Customizable: Add mix-ins like chocolate chips, walnuts, or cinnamon chips to make it your own.
Perfect for Overripe Bananas: Those spotty, brown bananas on your counter won’t go to waste.
Tips for Making the Best Banana Bread
Avoid Overmixing:
Mixing by hand with a spoon ensures the bread stays moist and fluffy, not dense or dry.
Test for Doneness:
Use a wooden skewer or sharp knife to check if your loaf is baked through. A toothpick might not be long enough to reach the center of the bread.
Customize It:
Sprinkle chocolate chips or a streusel topping on the batter before baking, or fold in your favorite mix-ins like chopped nuts or dried fruit.
Keep It Moist:
This recipe naturally creates a moist loaf, but avoid overbaking. If your banana bread dries out, microwave slices with a damp paper towel for a quick refresh.
Pro Tips:
For extra moisture, use very ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots.
Customize your bread with a streusel topping or a drizzle of glaze for added sweetness.
Freeze leftover slices individually for a quick treat anytime!
This banana bread is a classic for a reason—simple, versatile, and absolutely irresistible!
Pro Tip: Freezing Banana Bread
This banana bread freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a warm, just-baked taste.
Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked banana bread filling your kitchen! This classic banana bread recipe is easy to make, incredibly moist, and packed with flavor. Whether you enjoy it plain, topped with butter, or loaded with walnuts or chocolate chips, this banana bread is a surefire way to make those overripe bananas on your counter disappear. Perfect as a breakfast treat, snack, or dessert, this recipe is one you’ll return to time and time again.
Ingredients
- 3-4 ripe bananas, mashed
- ⅓ cup butter, melted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (plus extra for topping, if desired)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease and flour an 8.5×4.5-inch loaf pan, or spray it with non-stick baking spray.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas. Stir in the melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. - Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
Sprinkle the baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt over the banana mixture. Stir until evenly distributed. - Add Flour and Mix-Ins:
Gradually add the flour, stirring just until no streaks remain. Fold in the chopped walnuts or chocolate chips, if using. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread light and moist. - Fill the Pan:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Add extra walnuts or chocolate chips on top for garnish, if desired. - Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. - Cool and Serve:
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice into 10 thick slices and enjoy!
Make this easy banana bread today and enjoy the incredible aroma as it bakes! It’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen, just as it is in mine.