Simple Banana Bread
Highlighted under: Easy Baking Favorites
Simple Banana Bread is a deliciously moist and flavorful loaf that makes use of overripe bananas. Perfect for breakfast or a snack!
This Simple Banana Bread recipe is a family favorite passed down through generations. It's the perfect way to use up ripe bananas and makes a delightful snack or breakfast option.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Moist and tender texture that is hard to resist
- Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
- Versatile: add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor
The Benefits of Using Overripe Bananas
Overripe bananas are not just perfect for making banana bread; they also bring a wealth of natural sweetness and moisture to your baked goods. As bananas ripen, their starches convert to sugars, enhancing the flavor profile of your bread. This means you can often reduce the amount of added sugar without sacrificing taste, making your banana bread a healthier option.
Additionally, using overripe bananas helps reduce food waste, making this recipe an eco-friendly choice. Instead of tossing out those brown bananas, transform them into a delicious loaf that your family will love. It's a win-win situation for both your taste buds and the environment!
Tips for Perfect Banana Bread
To achieve the best texture and flavor, ensure you use very ripe bananas that are speckled or mostly brown. The more ripe, the better! If you're short on time, you can speed up the ripening process by placing bananas in a paper bag at room temperature. This traps ethylene gas, which encourages ripening.
Another key tip is to avoid overmixing the batter. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined to maintain a tender crumb. If you prefer a bit of crunch, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter. They not only enhance the flavor but also provide a delightful texture contrast.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious banana bread:
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
Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to start baking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bake your banana bread:
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 in the melted butter. Mix in the baking soda and salt.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the banana mixture and mix well. Finally, stir in the flour until just combined.
Pour and 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 to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your homemade banana bread with a cup of coffee or tea!
Serving Suggestions
Banana bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it warm, straight out of the oven, with a pat of butter for a comforting breakfast or snack. You can also toast slices for a delightful crunch, perfect for spreading with nut butter or cream cheese.
For those with a sweet tooth, consider drizzling a little honey or maple syrup over your banana bread. It adds an extra layer of flavor and sweetness that takes it to the next level. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a satisfying afternoon treat!
Storage Tips
To keep your banana bread fresh, allow it to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. This will help retain its moisture and softness. Properly stored, banana bread can last up to a week at room temperature.
If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing slices. Simply wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy a slice, thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the toaster for a quick treat.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, frozen bananas work great! Just thaw them and mash before using.
→ How do I store leftover banana bread?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Consider adding nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon for extra flavor.
Simple Banana Bread
Simple Banana Bread is a deliciously moist and flavorful loaf that makes use of overripe bananas. Perfect for breakfast or a snack!
Created by: Lucy Thompson
Recipe Type: Easy Baking Favorites
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
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
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter. Mix in the baking soda and salt.
Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the banana mixture and mix well. Finally, stir in the flour until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 14g
- Protein: 3g