Banana bread is a beloved classic, cherished for its moist texture, sweet flavor, and comforting aroma. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, banana bread never fails to satisfy. If you’re craving a slice of this delightful treat but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, look no further. This easy banana bread recipe requires just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, making it perfect for beginner bakers and busy individuals alike.
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter or vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- Optional add-ins: chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can leave some small lumps.
- Add the melted butter or oil to the mashed bananas and stir until well combined.
- Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract to the banana mixture, and mix until smooth and creamy.
- Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the banana mixture, and stir to combine.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients, stirring until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough banana bread.
- If desired, fold in any optional add-ins such as chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top of the banana bread should be golden brown and slightly cracked.
- Remove the banana bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice the banana bread and serve. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature, plain or with a smear of butter or cream cheese.
- Store any leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze individual slices for longer storage.
With just a handful of ingredients and simple instructions, this easy banana bread recipe delivers a deliciously moist and flavorful treat that is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted with a cup of coffee, this homemade banana bread is guaranteed to bring warmth and comfort to any occasion.