Description
This Classic Banana Bread recipe is simple, forgiving, and embodies the cozy comfort of fall mornings with its golden, caramelized flavor from overripe bananas.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp fine salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar (or 1/3 cup brown sugar + 1/4 cup granulated)
- 1/3 cup (75g) melted butter or neutral oil
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 3 very ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment for easy removal.
- Mix the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in a medium bowl.
- Combine the sugar and melted butter in a large bowl until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla, whisking until combined. Stir in the mashed bananas.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and just until combined—don’t overmix. Fold in nuts or chocolate chips if using.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil for the last 15 minutes.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness. Measure flour correctly to avoid a dense loaf. Don’t overmix to keep the loaf tender.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American