Simple Banana Bread
Highlighted under: Soft Kitchen
This Simple Banana Bread is a delightful way to use up ripe bananas. It's moist, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make!
This Simple Banana Bread recipe has been passed down through generations. With its soft texture and rich banana flavor, it’s the perfect treat for breakfast or a snack!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Easy to make with just a few simple ingredients
- Great way to use overripe bananas
- Delicious aroma fills your kitchen while baking
- Perfectly moist and fluffy texture
The Joy of Baking with Bananas
Banana bread is a classic recipe that has charmed home bakers for generations. The versatility of bananas allows them to be transformed into a deliciously moist loaf, making it a favorite for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Using ripe bananas not only enhances the flavor but also reduces food waste, making this recipe a sustainable choice.
The beauty of this Simple Banana Bread recipe is its simplicity. With just a few staple ingredients, you can whip up a delightful treat that requires minimal effort. The process is straightforward, making it ideal for novice bakers and busy individuals looking for a quick and rewarding baking project.
Tips for Perfect Banana Bread
To achieve the best results with your banana bread, the ripeness of your bananas is key. Choose bananas that are well-spotted and soft; they should be almost too ripe to eat. This not only enhances the sweetness but also contributes to the bread's moist texture. If you have bananas that are not ripe enough, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag for a day or two.
Another tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once you add the flour. Overmixing can lead to a denser bread rather than the light and fluffy loaf you desire. Mix until just combined for the best texture. Remember, lumps are okay! And if you want to add a twist, consider incorporating nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon for added flavor.
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
Make sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.
Mix Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter until well combined.
Add Remaining Ingredients
Mix in the baking soda and salt. Then stir in the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Finally, mix in the flour until just incorporated.
Bake
Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your homemade banana bread!
Pro Tips
- For added texture, consider adding nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.
Storing Your Banana Bread
Once your banana bread is baked and cooled, storing it properly can help maintain its freshness. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing it. Slice the banana bread before freezing for easy individual servings later on. It can stay frozen for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen banana bread, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature. You can also pop a slice in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm treat. Reheating can revive the moistness and flavor, making it taste freshly baked.
Serving Suggestions
Banana bread is delicious on its own, but there are many ways to elevate your serving experience. Spread a thin layer of butter on a warm slice for a classic touch, or try pairing it with cream cheese for a creamy contrast. For an indulgent treat, drizzle with honey or maple syrup, or top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Additionally, banana bread makes an excellent base for breakfast or brunch. Serve it alongside fresh fruit and yogurt for a wholesome meal, or enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. The delightful aroma of banana bread is sure to entice anyone who walks into your kitchen!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
→ How do I store banana bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, substitute the egg with a flax egg and use a plant-based butter.
→ What can I add to banana bread for extra flavor?
Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or mix in some nuts or chocolate chips.
Simple Banana Bread
This Simple Banana Bread is a delightful way to use up ripe bananas. It's moist, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make!
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 until well combined.
Mix in the baking soda and salt. Then stir in the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Finally, mix in the flour until just incorporated.
Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Extra Tips
- For added texture, consider adding nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 14g
- Protein: 3g