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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!