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Banana Bread

Banana Bread

This classic Banana Bread recipe uses ripe bananas and simple pantry staples to create a moist, flavorful loaf perfect for breakfast, snacks, or desserts. Easy to make and adaptable with optional add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, it results in a tender, sweet bread with a cozy, homemade taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 to 4 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/2 cups)
  • 1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free version)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/3 cup melted butter or oil (such as coconut oil for vegan)
  • 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan alternative)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional spices: 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup dried fruit (raisins or cranberries)
  • Alternate spices: pumpkin pie spice or cardamom as preferred

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Bananas and Mix Wet Ingredients: Start by mashing your ripe bananas in a bowl until smooth but still slightly chunky for texture. Then, mix in melted butter or oil, sugar, eggs (or flax eggs), and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend), baking soda, salt, and any optional spices you wish to include to ensure uniform distribution.
  3. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients Gently: Pour the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture and fold gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing; a few lumps are fine to keep the bread tender.
  4. Add Optional Ingredients: Fold in any nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit now to personalize your banana bread to your taste.
  5. Bake the Banana Bread: Pour the batter into a greased or lined 9×5 inch loaf pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  6. Cool Before Serving: Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps maintain the crust and prevents sogginess.

Notes

  • Use overripe bananas—brown spots or almost black—for maximum sweetness and moisture.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep the bread tender.
  • Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center before removing from oven.
  • Bring eggs and butter to room temperature before mixing for best results.
  • Fold in add-ins gently to avoid breaking down the batter.

Nutrition

Keywords: Banana Bread, Moist Banana Bread, Gluten-Free Banana Bread, Vegan Banana Bread, Quick Bread, Comfort Food, Breakfast, Snack, Dessert