There’s something about the smell of banana bread baking that instantly makes a house feel like home. This Honey Vanilla Banana Bread is my go-to when I want something comforting, slightly indulgent, and made with wholesome ingredients. Unlike overly sugary versions, this loaf gets its sweetness from ripe bananas and rich, floral honey—no refined sugar needed.
Inspired by classic American banana bread, this version adds depth with real vanilla extract and optional mix-ins like crushed nuts or chocolate chips. Whether it’s summer brunch or a winter afternoon snack, it fits perfectly into any season. And it comes together with just a few pantry staples in one bowl—no mixer required!
Why You’ll Love This Honey Vanilla Banana Bread
- Naturally Sweetened: Made with honey and ripe bananas—no refined sugar!
- Rich Flavor: The combination of vanilla and banana gives it a warm, aromatic taste.
- One-Bowl Wonder: No electric mixer needed—just a bowl and a whisk.
- Versatile: Great for breakfast, snack, or dessert. Enjoy warm or cold.
Ingredients
- 3 medium or 2 large ripe bananas (about 1½ cups, mashed)
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup honey
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Optional Mix-ins/Toppings: Crushed walnuts, chocolate chips, peanut butter glaze, or sliced banana for topping
Instructions
1. Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease or line an 8½ x 4½ inch loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and honey. Add the eggs and whisk until smooth. Stir in the mashed banana, milk, and vanilla extract.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Make the Batter
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined—do not overmix. The batter will be thick and slightly lumpy.
5. Add Toppings or Mix-ins
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Add toppings like sliced banana (cut lengthwise and placed on top), chopped nuts, or chocolate chips as desired.
6. Bake
Bake for 50–55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly cracked.
7. Cool and Slice
Let the bread cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Allow to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing to avoid crumbling.
Pro Tips & Variations
- Ripen Bananas Quickly: Bake unpeeled bananas at 300°F for 15 minutes to speed up ripening.
- Go Dairy-Free: Substitute plant-based butter and almond or oat milk.
- Make it Whole Grain: Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- Storage: Wrap in foil or keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or 5 days in the fridge. Freezes well too.
Serving Suggestions
- With a slather of almond or peanut butter
- Toasted with a pat of butter and a drizzle of honey
- Topped with yogurt and berries for a wholesome breakfast
- Paired with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea
Honey Vanilla Banana Bread
Ingredients
- 3 medium or 2 large ripe bananas about 1½ cups, mashed
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter melted
- ½ cup honey
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Optional Mix-ins/Toppings: Crushed walnuts, chocolate chips, peanut butter glaze, or sliced banana for topping
Instructions
Prep the Oven and Pan
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease or line an 8½ x 4½ inch loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and honey. Add the eggs and whisk until smooth. Stir in the mashed banana, milk, and vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Make the Batter
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined—do not overmix. The batter will be thick and slightly lumpy.
Add Toppings or Mix-ins
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Add toppings like sliced banana (cut lengthwise and placed on top), chopped nuts, or chocolate chips as desired.
Bake
- Bake for 50–55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly cracked.
Cool and Slice
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Allow to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing to avoid crumbling.
Leave a Comment