Description
This Easy Banana Bread Recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a cozy reminder of simple pleasures and home-cooked warmth.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 to 3 medium ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Start the adventure by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for baking banana bread, resulting in a golden crust while keeping the interior moist and fluffy. Prepare your loaf pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal afterward.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with the melted butter. Use a fork or a potato masher to ensure the bananas are well-pureed for an even texture throughout the bread. Next, incorporate the granulated sugar into the mixture, then add the beaten egg and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until you have a smooth mixture that smells heavenly!
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon if you’re using it. This step not only helps to combine the dry ingredients but also adds air, allowing for a lighter loaf.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture. Gently fold them together using your spatula or wooden spoon, being careful not to overmix. If you’re adding in nuts, go ahead and fold those in at this stage. You want to combine until just moistened; a few lumps are perfectly acceptable!
- Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The sweet aroma will surely fill your kitchen, hinting at the delightful treat that’s on its way!
- Once your banana bread is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial; if you slice it too soon, it might crumble. Once cool, slice your banana bread and enjoy a piece warm or at room temperature.
Notes
For the best flavor, use overripe bananas with brown spots. Store the banana bread in an airtight container to maintain moisture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 196 per slice
- Sodium: 140 mg
- Protein: 2.5 grams