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
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.
