Banana bread is a treat that should be easy to make anytime, anywhere—whether you’re using a mixer or just a fork, a loaf pan, or even a muffin tin. All you need are a few ripe, freckled bananas on hand. In fact, I’m convinced banana bread is at least 50% of the reason bananas exist!
Here’s a simple, foolproof recipe you can throw together in just 10 minutes. Ripe bananas are key—they bring out a rich, intense banana flavor. Pop it in the oven, and in about an hour, your home will be filled with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked banana bread. Before you know it, you’ll be enjoying a warm, delicious slice.
INGREDIENTS
- Cooking spray
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 medium very ripe bananas
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)
EQUIPMENT
- 8×5-inch loaf pan
- Parchment paper
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork (for mixing by hand)
- Stand mixer or hand mixer (if preferred)
- Spatula
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1: Preheat and prepare the pan
Place an oven rack in the lower third of the oven and preheat to 350°F. Line an 8×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, letting the excess hang over the long edges to form a sling. Spray the inside with cooking spray. If adding nuts, toast 1/2 cup of chopped nuts in the oven for about 10 minutes while it preheats.
Step 2: Melt the butter
Melt the butter in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Combine the melted butter and sugar in a large bowl, whisking until smooth. For a lighter, more cake-like banana bread, soften (but don’t melt) the butter and cream it with sugar using a stand mixer.
Step 3: Mix in the eggs
Add the eggs to the bowl and whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
Step 4: Add milk and vanilla
Pour in the milk and vanilla extract, whisking them into the batter.
Step 5: Mash the bananas
Peel the ripe bananas and add them to the batter. Mash them with the back of a fork or whisk, leaving the texture as chunky or smooth as you prefer. For an ultra-smooth batter, mash the bananas separately before adding them.
Step 6: Add dry ingredients
Gently stir in the flour, baking soda, and salt using a spatula. Mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
Step 7: Fold in optional mix-ins
If desired, fold in the toasted nuts or chocolate chips.
Step 8: Transfer to the pan
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 9: Bake
Bake for 50 to 65 minutes, or until the top is deep golden brown, with some lighter spots visible. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. Begin checking for doneness around 50 minutes, then every 5 minutes after.
Step 10: Cool in the pan
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes. This helps it firm up for easier removal.
Step 11: Remove and cool further
Use the parchment sling to lift the loaf out of the pan. Transfer to a wire rack and let it cool for another 10 minutes before slicing.
RECIPE NOTES
- Banana muffins: To make muffins, line a muffin tin with paper liners, fill each cup about 3/4 full, and bake for 20 minutes. Makes 8 to 10 muffins.
- Storage: Wrap leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for several days. For longer storage, wrap in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
