Traditional Banana Bread

Name: Traditional Banana Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 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 Traditional Banana Bread recipe is a comforting classic that's moist, flavorful, and easy to make. Perfect for using up overripe bananas!

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2025-12-31T14:40:18.003Z

This Traditional Banana Bread has been a family favorite for generations. The sweet aroma of baking bananas fills your kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with a little butter.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Natural sweetness from ripe bananas
Perfect for breakfast or a snack any time of day

      

The Magic of Overripe Bananas

Overripe bananas are not just a kitchen nuisance; they are the star ingredient in this Traditional Banana Bread. As bananas ripen, their starches convert to sugars, making them sweeter and adding a rich flavor to your baked goods. This transformation is key to achieving that moist and tender crumb that everyone loves in banana bread.

Using overripe bananas not only enhances the taste and texture of your bread but also helps reduce food waste. Instead of tossing those brown bananas into the compost, embrace them! They are the secret to creating a comforting loaf that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds.

Perfect Pairings

While this banana bread is delightful on its own, there are many ways to elevate your experience. Consider spreading a thin layer of butter or cream cheese on a warm slice for added richness. You can also pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

For those looking to add a twist, try incorporating nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits into the batter. These additions not only provide a delightful crunch or burst of flavor but also personalize your banana bread to suit your taste preferences.

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 freezing it. Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen banana bread, simply let it thaw at room temperature or pop a slice in the microwave for a few seconds. You'll have a delicious, homemade treat ready to enjoy any time!

Ingredients

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

Make sure to use very ripe bananas for the best flavor!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with the melted butter. Mix in the baking soda and salt. Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.

Add Flour

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

Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan. Bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade banana bread warm or at room temperature!

Baking Tips for Success

Baking can sometimes feel intimidating, but with this banana bread recipe, the process is straightforward and forgiving. To ensure the best results, use ripe bananas that are heavily speckled or even completely brown. This will guarantee maximum sweetness and moisture in your bread.

Make sure not to overmix the batter once you add the flour. Overmixing can lead to a dense bread rather than the fluffy texture you desire. Stir just until the flour is incorporated, and you'll be rewarded with a light, airy loaf.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to make this recipe a bit healthier, there are several simple substitutions you can make. Consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber and nutrients. You can also reduce the sugar content by using less than the recommended amount or substituting it with honey or maple syrup.

For a dairy-free version, replace the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. These changes will allow you to enjoy your banana bread while still maintaining a balanced diet.

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread is versatile and can be served in various ways. For breakfast, serve it alongside yogurt and fresh fruit for a balanced meal. As a snack, enjoy it with a dollop of peanut butter or almond butter for a protein boost.

For dessert, consider toasting slices and topping them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. This simple addition will turn your banana bread into a delightful treat that satisfies your sweet tooth!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, thaw the frozen bananas and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Wrap the banana bread in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I add to make it more flavorful?

Consider adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or even chocolate chips for a delicious twist!