Few things beat the cozy, nostalgic aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through the kitchen. 🍌🍞 Moist, slightly sweet, and rich with banana flavor, it’s a classic for a reason — perfect as a snack, breakfast, or even dessert.
Here’s a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing recipe:
🍌 Classic Banana Bread
📝 Ingredients
(Makes 1 loaf — 8 to 10 slices)
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3 medium ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/4 cups)
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1/3 cup melted butter (or oil)
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3/4 cup sugar (white, brown, or a mix)
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1 large egg, beaten
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 tsp baking soda
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1/2 tsp salt
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1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Optional Add-ins:
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1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
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1/2 cup chocolate chips
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1/2 tsp cinnamon for warmth
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Preheat & prepare:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Mash bananas:
In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until mostly smooth.
3. Mix wet ingredients:
Stir in the melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla.
4. Add dry ingredients:
Sprinkle in the baking soda and salt, then mix in the flour until just combined.
(Do not overmix — a few lumps are fine.)
5. Fold in extras:
Gently fold in nuts, chocolate chips, or any mix-ins if using.
6. Bake:
Pour batter into prepared pan.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
(If top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil in the last 10–15 minutes.)
7. Cool:
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
🧈 Serving Ideas
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Serve warm with a pat of butter, cream cheese, or peanut butter
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Toast slices and drizzle with honey or maple syrup
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Use it for French toast for a decadent breakfast twist
🔁 Tips & Variations
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Got 2 bananas? Use them and reduce flour slightly (1 1/3 cups) — still works!
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Swap 1/2 cup of flour for whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf
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Want it extra moist? Add 1/4 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the batter
Would you like a vegan, gluten-free, or low-sugar banana bread version too?
