Simple Banana Bread
Highlighted under: Easy Desserts Ideas
Enjoy a moist and flavorful banana bread that is easy to make and perfect for breakfast or a snack.
This Simple Banana Bread recipe is a family favorite, passed down through generations. It's a great way to use overripe bananas and is perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of the day.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Moist and tender texture that's hard to resist
- Quick and easy to prepare with simple ingredients
- Versatile - enjoy it plain or with nuts and chocolate chips
The Perfect Breakfast Treat
Banana bread is not just a delightful snack; it also makes for an incredible breakfast option. Pair a warm slice with a pat of butter or your favorite spread to kickstart your day. The natural sweetness of the ripe bananas means you won't need to add much sugar, making it a healthier alternative to sugary pastries.
Moreover, banana bread is incredibly filling thanks to its wholesome ingredients. The combination of bananas, butter, and egg provides the energy boost you need to tackle your morning. Enjoy it alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting start to your day.
A Simple Recipe for All Occasions
Whether you're hosting a brunch, looking for a quick snack, or trying to use up overripe bananas, this banana bread recipe fits the bill. Its simplicity means you can whip it up in no time, and its delicious aroma will fill your kitchen, tempting everyone who walks by.
Feel free to customize your banana bread by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Each variation brings a unique twist, allowing you to cater to different tastes and preferences. This versatility makes it a favorite among both bakers and eaters alike.
Storing and Freezing Tips
To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last for up to three months in the freezer.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen banana bread, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it in the oven for a few minutes. This will help restore its moist texture and delicious flavor, making it taste freshly baked.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients before you start:
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
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your banana bread:
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix Ingredients
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. Finally, mix in the flour until just combined.
Pour into Pan
Pour the batter into a greased 4x8 inch loaf pan.
Bake
Bake in preheated oven for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your delicious banana bread with a pat of butter or your favorite spread!
Nutritional Benefits
Banana bread offers several nutritional benefits, thanks to its key ingredient—bananas. Rich in potassium, bananas can help regulate blood pressure and support heart health. They also provide essential vitamins such as B6 and C, contributing to overall wellness.
Additionally, the use of whole ingredients like eggs and butter means you're getting a balanced mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. This makes banana bread not only tasty but also a more nutritious option compared to many other baked goods.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake when baking banana bread is using unripe bananas. For the best flavor and texture, choose bananas that are spotty and overripe. These bananas are sweeter and will make your bread moist and flavorful.
Another tip is to avoid overmixing your batter. Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. This will help prevent your banana bread from becoming tough and dry, ensuring a tender crumb that everyone will love.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, just thaw them and mash them before using.
→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
→ How should 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 add nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Add 1/2 cup of your favorite nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
Simple Banana Bread
Enjoy a moist and flavorful banana bread that is easy to make and perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Created by: Maribel Sutton
Recipe Type: Easy Desserts Ideas
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
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
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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. Finally, mix in the flour until just combined.
Pour the batter into a greased 4x8 inch loaf pan.
Bake in preheated oven for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 14g
- Protein: 2g