Classic Moist Banana Bread Recipe

Name: Classic Moist Banana Bread Recipe
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

Indulge in the delightful flavors of homemade banana bread that’s moist, flavorful, and easy to prepare.

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2026-01-02T02:10:09.101Z

This classic banana bread recipe has been passed down through generations, celebrated for its moist texture and rich banana flavor. It's perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a delightful dessert.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich banana flavor that is comforting and satisfying
Moist texture that stays fresh for days
Versatile: enjoy it plain or with nuts and chocolate chips

      

The Perfect Banana Bread

Banana bread is a beloved classic that brings comfort and warmth to any kitchen. Its rich banana flavor paired with a moist texture makes it an ideal treat for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. This recipe stands out for its simplicity and the use of ripe bananas, which contribute to the deep flavor and natural sweetness. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a loaf that rivals those from your favorite bakery.

One of the best aspects of banana bread is its versatility. You can enjoy it plain, but it also serves as a perfect canvas for additions like walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips. Whether you’re in the mood for a nutty crunch or a chocolatey indulgence, customizing your banana bread is easy and fun. This adaptability means you can cater it to your preferences or experiment with different flavors and textures.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the most delicious banana bread, start with ripe bananas. The browner the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. If you have ripe bananas that are too soft to eat, don’t toss them out; use them to whip up this delightful recipe. Additionally, measuring your ingredients accurately is key. Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to avoid dense bread that can occur from packing the flour into the measuring cup.

Another helpful tip is to avoid over-mixing the batter. Once you combine the flour with the wet ingredients, stir until just incorporated. This will help maintain the bread's tender crumb. Also, keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different, so check for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean for perfect results.

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

Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor!

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mix the melted butter with the mashed bananas. Add the baking soda and salt, then stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Finally, mix in the flour until just combined.

Pour into Pan

Pour the batter into a greased 4x8 inch loaf pan.

Bake

Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool

Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then remove from the pan and cool completely on a wire rack.

Enjoy your homemade banana bread warm or at room temperature!

Storing Your Banana Bread

To keep your banana bread fresh and delicious, store it at room temperature in an airtight container. This will help maintain its moisture and flavor for several days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider wrapping the loaf in plastic wrap and placing it in the refrigerator. While refrigeration can slightly alter the texture, it can keep the bread good for up to a week.

If you find yourself with leftover banana bread, it freezes beautifully! Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. You can enjoy a slice straight from the freezer or thaw it at room temperature. This way, you can have a tasty treat ready whenever the craving strikes without having to bake a new loaf.

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread is delightful on its own, but there are numerous ways to elevate your experience. Try spreading a layer of butter or cream cheese on a warm slice for a rich, indulgent treat. You can also top it with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for an added touch of sweetness. For a more decadent option, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making it a perfect dessert for special occasions.

Pairing banana bread with a hot beverage can enhance the overall enjoyment. A cup of coffee, tea, or even hot chocolate complements the flavors of the bread beautifully. If you’re serving it for brunch, consider adding fresh fruit or yogurt on the side for a well-rounded meal. These simple additions can turn your banana bread into a delightful feast that your family and friends will love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw the frozen bananas and mash them before using.

→ How do I store banana bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Fold in your favorite nuts or chocolate chips after combining the ingredients.

→ What can I do if my banana bread is too dense?

Make sure not to overmix the batter and check that your baking soda is fresh.