There is something universally comforting about a warm slice of banana bread. This Moist Banana Bread Recipe is hands down the best banana bread recipe you will find. It is foolproof, requiring just one bowl and no mixer, and yields a loaf that is incredibly soft, sweet, and packed with banana flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Super Moist Texture
The key to this recipe is the high ratio of bananas and melted butter. This ensures the bread stays moist for days and never becomes dry or crumbly. It has a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
Effortless Preparation
You don’t need fancy equipment. Just a fork to mash the bananas and a spoon to mix the batter. It takes less than 10 minutes to get it into the oven, making it the perfect quick bake.
Ingredients
- 3 medium Ripe bananas, mashed
- 0.33 cup Melted butter
- 0.75 cup Sugar
- 1 large Egg, beaten
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1 tsp Baking soda
- 1.5 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 pinch Salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease loaf pan.
- Mash bananas and mix with melted butter and sugar.
- Add egg, vanilla, baking soda, and salt.
- Fold in flour until just combined.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes.
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
You need very ripe bananas (brown spots are good!), melted butter, sugar, an egg, vanilla, baking soda, and flour. The ripeness of the bananas determines the natural sweetness and moisture level.
Smart Substitutions
You can swap half the sugar for brown sugar for a deeper molasses flavor. For a healthier twist, use whole wheat flour or substitute the butter with coconut oil. Walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips make excellent mix-ins.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan. Peel and mash your bananas in a large bowl until smooth with a few chunks.
Cooking Phase
Stir the melted butter and sugar into the bananas. Add the beaten egg and vanilla. Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture and stir. Gently fold in the flour until just combined—do not overmix! Pour into the pan and bake for 50-60 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
Stop mixing as soon as the flour disappears. Overmixing develops gluten and leads to a tough loaf. Also, check the bread around the 50-minute mark; if it’s browning too fast, tent it with foil.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using under-ripe bananas is the biggest mistake. They lack sweetness and flavor. If your bananas are yellow, bake them in their skins at 300°F for 15 minutes to quickly ripen them.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Slice thickly and serve warm with salted butter. It is also delicious toasted.
Pairing Suggestions
This bread is perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea. If you enjoy baking classic treats, you might also like this Leah’s Best 18th Birthday Cake for your next special occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1? Can I freeze banana bread?
Yes! Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It freezes for up to 3 months.
Q2? Why did my bread sink?
It was likely underbaked in the center. Make sure the toothpick test comes out clean or with moist crumbs, not raw batter.
Q3? Can I make muffins with this?
Yes, pour the batter into a muffin tin and bake for 18-22 minutes.
Conclusion
This Moist Banana Bread Recipe Easy is a staple for any kitchen. It turns overripe fruit into a delicious treat that everyone loves. It truly is the best banana bread recipe for simplicity and taste.
| Classic | 1/2 cup Walnuts |
|---|---|
| Sweet | 1/2 cup Chocolate Chips |
| Tropical | 1/2 cup Shredded Coconut |
