There’s something magical about the aroma of baking banana bread wafting through your home. It’s like a warm hug for your senses, with sweet, ripe bananas and a hint of vanilla dancing together in perfect harmony. This easy banana bread recipe is not just a treat; it’s a nostalgic journey back to simpler times, where the biggest dilemma was whether to have a second slice or save it for later.

Picture this: You’ve had a long day at work, and all you want is to kick off your shoes and indulge in something comforting. Enter this delightful banana bread, ready to greet you with its golden crust and soft, moist interior. It’s perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert. Trust me, once you take that first bite, the world outside fades away – and you’re left with pure bliss.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy banana bread recipe can be made in under an hour, making it perfect for busy days
- The flavor is rich and sweet without being overwhelming
- Its golden-brown crust is visually appealing and inviting
- You can customize it with nuts or chocolate chips to make it uniquely yours
I remember the first time I made this easy banana bread recipe; my kids devoured it so fast I barely got a slice! Their joyous faces were priceless as they fought over the last piece.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ripe Bananas: Use 3-4 ripe bananas; the browner they are, the sweeter your bread will be.
Granulated Sugar: About one cup will enhance the sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your taste.
Eggs: One large egg helps bind everything together; use room temperature for best results.
All-Purpose Flour: About one and a half cups give structure; sifted flour makes for lighter bread.
Baking Soda: Just one teaspoon helps the bread rise beautifully; make sure it’s fresh!
Salt: A pinch enhances all flavors; don’t skip it – it does wonders.
Unsalted Butter: Half a cup adds richness; melted butter mixes better into the batter.
Vanilla Extract: A teaspoon brings warmth and depth; opt for pure extract if possible.
Nuts or Chocolate Chips (optional): Add about half a cup if you like extra texture and flavor; they make everything more fun!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you gather your ingredients. Grease a loaf pan generously with non-stick spray or butter to avoid any sticky situations later.
Mixing the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mash those ripe bananas until smooth. Add melted butter and mix well until combined. Stir in sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until everything melds into one glorious mixture.
Sifting Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Sifting helps remove lumps and incorporates air for fluffy bread.
Combining Both Mixtures: Gently fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix – we’re not trying to build muscle here! A few lumps are perfectly okay.
Add Optional Ingredients: If you’re feeling adventurous (and I hope you are), fold in nuts or chocolate chips now for that extra crunch or decadence.
Pour & Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. Keep an eye out for that lovely golden color – when a toothpick comes out clean from the center, it’s done!
Now sit back and enjoy those heavenly smells filling your kitchen while you wait!
Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it onto a cooling rack. Don’t forget to take that first warm slice – it’s like tasting happiness!
This easy banana bread recipe is not just about baking; it’s about creating memories that linger long after that last crumb is gone. So grab those overripe bananas sitting on your counter today because they’re begging for attention!
You Must Know
- This easy banana bread recipe is a delightful way to use overripe bananas
- Its sweet aroma fills the kitchen, making it impossible to resist
- Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this banana bread will quickly become your family’s favorite
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results with this easy banana bread recipe, start by preheating your oven while you mash the bananas. This allows the flavors to meld perfectly as you mix in the other ingredients.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your easy banana bread recipe by adding walnuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor. You can also substitute some of the sugar with honey for a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop slices in the microwave for about 10 seconds, and enjoy that fresh-baked flavor again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use very ripe bananas for natural sweetness; they make a world of difference in flavor
- Ensure not to overmix the batter; this keeps the bread tender and fluffy
- Check doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean from the center
Sometimes I think back to that rainy day when my friend brought over her homemade banana bread. The warmth and laughter we shared made me realize that good food creates great memories.

FAQ
Can I use frozen bananas in this easy banana bread recipe?
Yes, thawed frozen bananas work well; just drain excess moisture before mashing them.
How do I know when my banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your banana bread is ready.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend for delicious results.

Easy Banana Bread
Experience the warmth and comfort of homemade banana bread with this easy recipe. Bursting with rich flavors from ripe bananas and a hint of vanilla, this moist loaf is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. In under an hour, you can create a golden-brown treat that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Customize it with nuts or chocolate chips for an added touch of indulgence.
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: About 10 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup nuts or chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas with melted butter. Mix in sugar, egg, and vanilla until combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- If desired, fold in nuts or chocolate chips.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (70g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg






