Classic Moist Banana Bread Recipe
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Enjoy the delightful taste of homemade banana bread with this classic recipe that guarantees a moist and flavorful result every time.
This Classic Moist Banana Bread Recipe is a family favorite that has been passed down through generations. It's perfect for breakfast or a snack, and the aroma of bananas baking is irresistible!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich banana flavor that is perfectly sweet
- Moist texture that keeps it fresh for days
- Simple ingredients that you probably already have at home
The Perfect Banana Bread
Banana bread is a beloved classic that many enjoy for its warm, comforting flavor. This recipe stands out because it captures the essence of ripe bananas, creating a moist and delectable treat perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. With each bite, you'll experience a delightful blend of sweetness and rich banana flavor that leaves you wanting more. Whether you enjoy it plain or with a spread of butter, this banana bread is sure to become a family favorite.
What makes this banana bread truly special is its simplicity. You don’t need fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Just a few ripe bananas, some basic pantry staples, and a bit of time will yield a delicious loaf. This recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros, as it allows anyone to create a bakery-quality treat in their own kitchen.
Tips for Success
To achieve the best flavor and texture, make sure to use ripe bananas that are well-spotted or even overripe. The natural sugars in overripe bananas will enhance the sweetness of your bread, contributing to its moistness. If you have bananas that are getting too ripe, don’t hesitate to freeze them. Just thaw them out before using, and you'll be ready to bake.
Another helpful tip is to avoid overmixing your batter. Once you combine your ingredients, stir just until they are incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense and gummy texture, which is not what you want. Remember, some lumps are okay! Letting your batter rest for a few minutes before pouring it into the pan can also help to enhance the loaf's final texture.
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly for a delicious banana bread.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.
Combine Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter.
Mix in Other Ingredients
Mix in the baking soda and salt. Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until combined. Finally, mix in the flour.
Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan. Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your warm, delicious banana bread fresh from the oven!
Storing Your Banana Bread
Once your banana bread has cooled completely, proper storage is key to keeping it fresh. Place it in an airtight container at room temperature, and it should stay moist for up to four days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a piece of banana bread whenever the craving strikes.
If you prefer to keep your banana bread in the fridge, make sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out. Just remember that refrigeration can change the texture slightly, making it a bit denser. For the best experience, enjoy your banana bread at room temperature or slightly warmed.
Variations to Try
This classic banana bread recipe serves as a fantastic base for countless variations. Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for a lovely crunch, or fold in some chocolate chips for a sweet twist that chocolate lovers will adore. Dried fruits, such as raisins or cranberries, can also be a delicious addition, adding both flavor and texture.
For a touch of spice, try incorporating cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter. These spices complement the bananas beautifully and add a warm, aromatic quality to your bread. If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with different extracts, such as almond or coconut, to create your own unique flavor profile.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, frozen bananas work well. Just thaw them and mash before adding to the mixture.
→ How do I store leftover banana bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze banana bread?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Consider adding nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon for added flavor.
Classic Moist Banana Bread Recipe
Enjoy the delightful taste of homemade banana bread with this classic recipe that guarantees a moist and flavorful result every time.
Created by: Maisie Clarke
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Banana Bread
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter.
Mix in the baking soda and salt. Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until combined. Finally, mix in the flour.
Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan. Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g