Simple Banana Bread for Beginners

Name: Simple Banana Bread for Beginners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 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

Highlighted under: Simple Planning

This Simple Banana Bread recipe is perfect for beginners and makes use of ripe bananas for a moist and delicious loaf.

Created by

Jemima Fox

Last updated on 2026-01-03T03:17:34.853Z

This Simple Banana Bread is a cherished recipe that has been passed down through generations. It's the perfect solution for overripe bananas and makes a delightful snack or breakfast treat.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Easy to follow for novice bakers
Deliciously moist and flavorful
A great way to use up overripe bananas

      

Understanding the Ingredients

This Simple Banana Bread recipe relies on a few key ingredients that work together to create a moist and flavorful loaf. Ripe bananas are essential; they not only provide natural sweetness but also contribute to the bread's texture. The mashed bananas replace some of the fat typically required in bread baking, making this treat a bit healthier without sacrificing taste.

Melted butter adds richness to the banana bread, while sugar sweetens the loaf and helps to create a beautiful crust. The addition of a beaten egg provides structure and binds the ingredients together. Finally, all-purpose flour is the backbone of the recipe, giving the bread its necessary bulk and stability.

Tips for Perfect Banana Bread

For the best results, use bananas that are very ripe, with plenty of brown spots. This indicates that they are sweet and ready to be mashed into your batter. If you have frozen bananas, they can be used directly after thawing, making this recipe incredibly convenient for using up overripe fruit.

Be careful not to overmix your batter. Stir just until the flour is incorporated; this will keep your banana bread light and fluffy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, feel free to fold in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips before pouring the batter into the pan.

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it warm with a pat of butter for a cozy breakfast or snack. Alternatively, top slices with cream cheese or nut butter for an added layer of flavor and creaminess.

For a delightful dessert, consider serving banana bread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzling it with caramel sauce. It’s also a fantastic base for a banana bread French toast, simply slice it up, dip in an egg mixture, and cook until golden brown. The possibilities are endless!

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 and moisture in your bread.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork. Stir in the melted butter until well combined.

Add Sugar and Egg

Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture, and mix in. Then add the flour and stir until just incorporated.

Pour into Loaf Pan

Pour the batter into a greased 4x8 inch loaf pan.

Bake

Bake in preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your homemade banana bread!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in nuts or chocolate chips.

Storing Your Banana Bread

To keep your banana bread fresh, store it at room temperature in an airtight container. It will stay moist for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last up to 3 months when properly stored.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen banana bread, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds. It will taste just as delicious as the day you baked it!

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different flavors by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. You can also mix in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and texture. For a chocolatey twist, try folding in chocolate chips or cocoa powder.

If you want to incorporate a healthier option, consider replacing some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will add fiber and nutrients to your banana bread without compromising on flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How can I tell when the banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs.