Easy Banana Bread Recipe

Name: Easy Banana Bread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 1 loaf
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

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This Easy Banana Bread Recipe is perfect for using up overripe bananas and is a delightful treat for breakfast or as a snack.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-01-02T00:52:03.230Z

This banana bread is not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. It’s moist, filled with banana flavor, and perfect for breakfast or as a snack.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Moist and flavorful with ripe bananas
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Perfect for breakfast or as a snack
Freezes well for later enjoyment

      

The Perfect Use for Overripe Bananas

Banana bread is a fantastic way to utilize overripe bananas that would otherwise go to waste. The natural sugars in ripe bananas make this bread both sweet and flavorful, creating a delicious treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Instead of tossing those brown bananas, simply mash them up and turn them into a delightful loaf that everyone will love.

Using overripe bananas not only enhances the taste but also provides a moist texture to the bread. This recipe is forgiving, meaning slight variations in banana ripeness can actually improve the flavor profile. So, don’t hesitate to experiment—those slightly squishy bananas in your fruit bowl are the stars of this recipe!

Simple Ingredients for Easy Baking

One of the best aspects of this easy banana bread recipe is its simplicity. You likely have most, if not all, of the ingredients in your kitchen already. With just a handful of pantry staples—ripe bananas, sugar, flour, an egg, and butter—you can whip up a loaf of banana bread in no time. This makes it an ideal recipe for both novice bakers and seasoned pros looking for a quick and satisfying bake.

The straightforward nature of this recipe means you don’t need any fancy equipment or complicated techniques. Just a mixing bowl, a fork, and your trusty loaf pan are all you need to create this delicious treat. This ease of preparation is perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous snack cravings.

Versatile and Freezable

Not only is this banana bread great fresh out of the oven, but it also freezes exceptionally well. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or for those days when you want a quick snack without the fuss. Simply slice the cooled banana bread, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, and store them in an airtight container in the freezer. You can enjoy a slice whenever the craving strikes, just pop it in the toaster for a warm treat.

Additionally, banana bread is versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon for an extra kick. This adaptability means you can tailor the recipe to your preferences or what you have on hand, ensuring that every loaf is uniquely delicious.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread

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

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas.

Combine Dry Ingredients

Mix in the baking soda and salt. Then, add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, and mix well.

Add Flour

Finally, stir in the flour until just incorporated. Do not overmix.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60 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 it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Storage 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 refrigerating it, though this may slightly alter the texture. For long-term storage, freezing is your best bet. Properly wrapped, banana bread can last for up to three months in the freezer, retaining its moisture and flavor.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen banana bread, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or let it sit at room temperature for a couple of hours. You can also reheat it in the oven or toaster for a warm, comforting snack any time.

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread can be enjoyed on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with various toppings. For a simple yet delicious addition, try spreading a bit of butter or cream cheese on warm slices. If you're looking for something a bit sweeter, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup can elevate the flavor to new heights.

For an indulgent breakfast, serve your banana bread alongside a dollop of yogurt and fresh fruit. This combination adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, moist bread, making for a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Health Benefits

While banana bread is a treat, it also offers some nutritional benefits. Bananas are a great source of potassium, which is essential for heart health and muscle function. They also provide dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer.

By using whole ingredients like ripe bananas and minimizing added sugars, you can make a healthier version of banana bread. Consider substituting some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup, or adding oats for extra fiber. This way, you can enjoy your homemade banana bread while still being mindful of your health.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, frozen bananas work great! Just thaw them before mashing.

→ How can I make this banana bread healthier?

You can substitute some of the flour with whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar.

→ What can I do with leftover banana bread?

You can freeze slices for later or use them to make banana bread French toast.

→ How do I know when the banana bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is done.