There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through your kitchen. This classic banana bread recipe is incredibly easy to make, perfectly moist, and just sweet enough—ideal for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Super Moist – No dry, crumbly bread here!
✅ Simple Ingredients – Pantry staples only.
✅ Customizable – Add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices.
✅ Perfect for Any Time – Great for breakfast, tea time, or dessert.

Ingredients (Makes 1 Loaf)

  • 3 ripe bananas (the spottier, the better!)

  • 1/3 cup melted butter (or oil)

  • 3/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)

  • 1 egg

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 tsp baking soda

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)

  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat & Prep – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Mash Bananas – In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth (small lumps are fine).
3️⃣ Mix Wet Ingredients – Stir in melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla.
4️⃣ Add Dry Ingredients – Gently fold in flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Avoid overmixing!
5️⃣ Fold in Extras – Add nuts or chocolate chips if desired.
6️⃣ Bake – Pour batter into the pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7️⃣ Cool & Serve – Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips for the Best Banana Bread

🍌 Use Overripe Bananas – The darker, the sweeter and more flavorful!
🔥 Don’t Overbake – Check at 50 minutes to keep it moist.
🌰 Customize It – Try walnuts, pecans, or a swirl of Nutella!
🍞 Storage – Keeps fresh for 3 days at room temp or freeze for up to 3 months.

Fact Check

✔ Origin: Banana bread became popular in the U.S. during the Great Depression as a way to use overripe bananas.
✔ Variations: Some recipes use yogurt or buttermilk for extra moisture.

Final Thoughts

This foolproof banana bread recipe is a timeless favorite—soft, sweet, and packed with banana goodness. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, this loaf will turn out perfectly every time. Give it a try and make your kitchen smell amazing!