Simple Banana Bread
Highlighted under: Modern Baking Ideas
This Simple Banana Bread is the perfect way to use up ripe bananas, resulting in a moist and flavorful loaf that's great for breakfast or a snack.
This Simple Banana Bread recipe is a cherished family favorite, passed down through generations. It's incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great choice for both novice and seasoned bakers alike.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Moist and flavorful with every bite
- A great way to use overripe bananas
- Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert
The Benefits of Homemade Banana Bread
Making banana bread at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that you use fresh and high-quality items. Store-bought options can often include preservatives and artificial flavors, while your homemade version can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you prefer it plain, with nuts, or even chocolate chips, the choice is yours.
Additionally, baking banana bread is a fantastic way to minimize food waste. Overripe bananas are often overlooked, but they are perfect for this recipe. Instead of tossing them out, you can transform them into a delicious treat that your family will love. It's a simple, practical solution that benefits both your kitchen and your taste buds.
Tips for Perfect Banana Bread
To achieve the best texture and flavor, use bananas that are heavily speckled or even blackened. These bananas are sweeter and more flavorful, making them ideal for baking. If you don’t have ripe bananas on hand, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a brown paper bag for a day or two.
Another tip is to avoid overmixing the batter. Once you add the flour, mix until just combined to prevent the bread from becoming too dense. This will result in a lighter, fluffier loaf that is sure to impress your family and friends. Remember, a few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine!
Serving Suggestions
Banana bread can be enjoyed in so many ways! Serve it warm with a pat of butter for a comforting breakfast or snack. For an added twist, spread some cream cheese or almond butter on top for a deliciously creamy texture that complements the sweetness of the bread.
You can also get creative by adding toppings such as chopped nuts, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a drizzle of honey. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding swirls of peanut butter or Nutella to the batter before baking for a delightful surprise in every slice.
Ingredients
Simple 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
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until combined. Pour into a greased loaf pan and bake.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork. Stir in the melted butter. Add the baking soda and salt, then mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Finally, fold in the flour until just incorporated.
Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your delicious banana bread with a cup of coffee or tea!
Storing Your Banana Bread
To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen banana bread can last for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping to avoid sogginess.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen banana bread, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or leave it at room temperature for a few hours. You can also warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds or in the toaster for a crispy exterior.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with your banana bread by incorporating different ingredients. Add in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch, or mix in chocolate chips for a sweet twist. You can also try adding spices such as nutmeg or cardamom for a warm, aromatic flavor.
For a healthier alternative, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or using honey or maple syrup instead of sugar. These variations can provide a nutritional boost while still keeping the delicious taste of your banana bread intact.
Perfect Pairings
Banana bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. A hot cup of coffee or tea complements its sweetness perfectly, making it an excellent choice for breakfast or an afternoon snack. For a refreshing option, serve it with a glass of cold milk or a fruity smoothie.
If you're looking to create a complete meal, consider serving banana bread alongside a fresh fruit salad or a yogurt parfait. The combination of flavors and textures will create a satisfying and wholesome experience that everyone will enjoy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
→ How do I store banana bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for up to a week.
→ Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just use two loaf pans or bake in batches.
→ Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Yes, feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
Simple Banana Bread
This Simple Banana Bread is the perfect way to use up ripe bananas, resulting in a moist and flavorful loaf that's great for breakfast or a snack.
Created by: Dorothy Finch
Recipe Type: Modern Baking Ideas
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
Simple 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
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork. Stir in the melted butter. Add the baking soda and salt, then mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Finally, fold in the flour until just incorporated.
Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 14g
- Protein: 2g