Introduction
Banana bread is a timeless classic that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with a rich, moist texture. It’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert! This easy recipe is great for beginner bakers and will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients You Will Need
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar (can be reduced to 1/2 cup)
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4×8-inch loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
- Add melted butter to the mashed bananas and mix well.
- Stir in the baking soda and salt.
- Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing just until no flour streaks remain.
- If desired, fold in nuts or chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Best Results
For the best banana bread, use ripe bananas with lots of brown spots. Avoid over-mixing, which can lead to denser bread. Enjoy experimenting with your add-ins!