This classic banana bread is soft, moist, and packed with rich banana flavor. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this easy recipe requires just a few simple ingredients and can be customized with nuts, chocolate chips, or cinnamon.
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 ripe bananas (about 1 cup mashed)
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)
- ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk or plain yogurt (for extra moisture)
- ½ cup (60g) chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Batter
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 9×5-inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan and line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth.
- Stir in the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Mix in the buttermilk (or yogurt) for extra moisture.
- If using, fold in chopped walnuts or chocolate chips.
3. Bake the Banana Bread
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil during the last 15 minutes.
4. Cool and Serve
- Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Banana Bread
✔ Use overripe bananas (the more brown spots, the sweeter and more flavorful).
✔ Do not overmix to keep the bread soft and tender.
✔ Add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.
✔ Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Enjoy your super moist banana bread with a cup of coffee or tea!