The Best Banana Bread Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Irresistible

Quick Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 10 slices
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cost: $
• Nutrition (per slice): 210 kcal, 3g protein, 9g fat, 30g carbs

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
• 1/3 cup melted butter (or coconut oil for vegan version)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (or maple syrup for refined sugar-free)
• 1 egg (or flax egg)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or oat flour for gluten-free)
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips

For more on avoiding common baking pitfalls, see our guide: Banana Bread: 5 Mistakes to Avoid.

Recommended Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Fork or potato masher
• Loaf pan (9×5 inch)
• Spatula
• Oven

Tip: No loaf pan? Use a muffin tin for banana bread muffins—just reduce the bake time to 20 minutes!

How to Make Banana Bread (Step-by-Step)

1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 9×5 loaf pan.
2. Mash bananas in a large bowl until smooth.
3. Stir in melted butter and sugar until well combined.
4. Add egg and vanilla, beat until creamy.
5. Sprinkle in baking soda and salt, mix gently.
6. Add flour, stir until just incorporated. Don’t overmix!
7. Fold in nuts or chocolate chips if using.
8. Pour into the loaf pan and smooth the top.
9. Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
10. Let cool 10 minutes before removing from pan.

Chef’s Tips for Perfect Banana Bread

• Use bananas that are almost black—this adds moisture and sweetness.
• Don’t overmix the batter; it can make the bread tough.
• Want healthier? Use half whole wheat flour or add chia seeds!
• Try this healthy banana bread variation too!

FAQ About Banana Bread

Can I freeze banana bread?

Yes! Wrap slices or the whole loaf tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

How do I keep banana bread moist?

Store it in an airtight container with a slice of apple or bread to retain moisture.

Can I use frozen bananas?

Absolutely. Let them thaw and drain excess liquid before mashing.

How do I make it vegan?

Use coconut oil or vegan butter and substitute egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).

Pairings & Variations

• Drinks: Pair with coffee, chai, or a glass of oat milk
• Add-ins: Swap nuts for dried cranberries, swirl with Nutella, or sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top
• Serving ideas: Toast with butter for breakfast or serve with vanilla ice cream for dessert

Explore More Banana Bread Goodness

• The History of Banana Bread
• Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid
• Healthy Banana Bread Recipe