Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe

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by Alexia

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Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe

Super moist, EASY, and delicious, this is the Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe you’ll ever try! Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this recipe transforms overripe bananas into a delightful treat that everyone will love. It’s simple to make and freezes beautifully, ensuring you can enjoy this classic comfort food anytime.

Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: With just a few minutes of prep time, you can whip up this banana bread in no time.
  • Deliciously Moist: The ripe bananas ensure a tender crumb that melts in your mouth with every bite.
  • Versatile Flavor: Customize with nuts or chocolate chips to suit your taste preferences.
  • Freezer Friendly: Bake a loaf and freeze slices for a quick snack or breakfast option later.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this banana bread fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making the Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe, gather your tools to ensure you have everything on hand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • 8.5×4.5-inch loaf pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

  • Loaf pan: Ensures even baking and creates the perfect shape for your banana bread.
  • Mixing bowl: Offers enough space to combine all ingredients without making a mess.
  • Wooden spoon: Ideal for mixing gently without overworking the batter.
  • Wire rack: Allows proper cooling for the banana bread, preventing sogginess.
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Ingredients

Super moist, EASY, and delicious, this is the Best Banana Bread recipe ever! It’s our favorite way to use up overripe bananas and it freezes really well too!

Ingredients:
3-4 ripe bananas (about 2 cups mashed)
1/3 cup salted butter (melted)
3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
1 large egg (beaten)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups (212g) all-purpose flour
1 cup chopped walnuts (or chocolate chips, plus extra for topping if desired)

How to Make Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350℉ (177℃). Lightly grease and flour your loaf pan or spray it with baking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Combine the mashed bananas with the melted butter.
2. Add in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.
3. Stir well using a large wooden spoon until everything is well incorporated.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle the following over the banana mixture:
– Baking soda
– Baking powder
– Ground cinnamon
– Salt

Stir until all dry ingredients are mixed in evenly.

Step 4: Combine Everything Together

Add the flour and walnuts or chocolate chips (if using):
1. Stir gently just until no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix.
2. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes:
1. Check doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
2. Once baked, cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Slice into about 10 thick slices when cooled and serve! Enjoy your homemade Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe!

How to Serve Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe

Serving your banana bread can elevate the experience and make it even more delightful. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious treat!

With Butter and Jam

  • Spread a thin layer of butter on a warm slice and top with your favorite jam for a sweet contrast.

As French Toast

  • Dip slices of banana bread in an egg mixture, then cook on a skillet for a tasty twist on traditional French toast.

Topped with Yogurt

  • Add a dollop of Greek yogurt on top for a creamy texture and extra protein boost.

With Ice Cream

  • Serve warm slices topped with scoops of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert option.

As a Breakfast Sandwich

  • Slice the banana bread horizontally and fill it with nut butter or cream cheese for a satisfying breakfast sandwich.

With Fresh Fruit

  • Pair slices with fresh berries or banana slices to enhance the fruity flavors in the bread.

How to Perfect Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe

To ensure your banana bread turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

  • Use Overripe Bananas: The sweeter and softer the bananas, the better the flavor. Look for bananas that are brown and spotty.

  • Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your banana bread tender. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.

  • Check for Doneness: Insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, your banana bread is done. Baking times may vary by oven.

  • Cool Before Slicing: Allow your banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your banana bread can make for an enjoyable meal or snack time. Here are some excellent options:

  1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of banana bread beautifully.

  2. Nut Mix: A handful of mixed nuts adds crunch and balances out the softness of the bread.

  3. Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like cream cheese or goat cheese provide savory notes that contrast well with sweet flavors.

  4. Smoothie: Blend up your favorite fruits and yogurt for a fruity drink that pairs nicely with banana bread.

  5. Chia Seed Pudding: A light, creamy pudding made from chia seeds adds a nutritious element alongside your treat.

  6. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts or fruit makes for a hearty breakfast alongside banana bread slices.

  7. Herbal Tea: Enjoying your banana bread with soothing herbal tea can enhance relaxation during snack time.

  8. Coffee: A rich cup of coffee is always an excellent companion, balancing the sweetness of banana bread perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your banana bread turns out perfectly every time.

  • Using unripe bananas – Unripe bananas won’t provide the natural sweetness and moisture needed for delicious banana bread. Always use ripe bananas with brown spots for the best results.
  • Overmixing the batter – Overmixing can lead to dense and tough bread. Mix just until you can no longer see streaks of flour to keep it light and fluffy.
  • Not measuring ingredients accurately – Inaccurate measurements can ruin your recipe. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially with flour and sugar.
  • Skipping the cooling period – Cutting into your banana bread too soon can result in a gummy texture. Let it cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
  • Using cold ingredients – Cold butter or eggs can affect how well your batter comes together. Allow these ingredients to come to room temperature for optimal mixing.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Keep the banana bread in an airtight container.
  • It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe

  • Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag.
  • It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe

  • Oven – Preheat the oven to 350℉ (177℃). Wrap the loaf in foil and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
  • Microwave – Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds, checking to avoid overheating.
  • Stovetop – Heat slices on a skillet over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes per side until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe that might help you out.

How ripe should bananas be for banana bread?

Bananas should be very ripe, with brown spots on their skin. This indicates they are sweet enough for baking.

Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Yes! Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans or omit nuts altogether if preferred.

Is this banana bread gluten-free?

To make gluten-free banana bread, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips is a great way to enhance flavor. You can mix them into the batter or sprinkle them on top before baking.

Final Thoughts

The Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe is not only simple but also incredibly moist and flavorful. It’s perfect for breakfast or as a delightful snack. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits based on your preference!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe

Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe


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  • Author: Alexia
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: About 10 servings 1x

Description

Indulge in the delightful taste of this Best Easy Banana Bread Recipe, where overripe bananas transform into a moist, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for any occasion. This simple recipe is not only quick to prepare, but it also freezes beautifully, making it an ideal snack or breakfast option anytime you crave a sweet treat. Customize your banana bread by adding nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create a comforting classic that will impress family and friends alike.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 ripe bananas (about 2 cups mashed)
  • 1/3 cup salted butter (melted)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg (beaten)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and flour your loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, mix mashed bananas with melted butter. Stir in sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  3. Add baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt; mix thoroughly.
  4. Gently fold in the flour and walnuts or chocolate chips until just combined.
  5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a knife inserted comes out clean.
  6. Let cool for about 10 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 205
  • Sugar: 11g
  • Sodium: 134mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 33g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

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