Moist Banana Bread with Ripe Bananas

Name: Moist Banana Bread with Ripe Bananas
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

Enjoy the delightful taste of this Moist Banana Bread made with ripe bananas, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2026-01-02T02:10:11.034Z

This Moist Banana Bread is a family favorite, passed down through generations. The use of ripe bananas ensures a natural sweetness and moisture that makes each slice irresistible.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Incredibly moist and flavorful thanks to ripe bananas
Simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand
Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack

      

The Perfect Use for Ripe Bananas

Ripe bananas are the star of this moist banana bread recipe. When bananas reach their peak ripeness, they become incredibly sweet and soft, making them perfect for baking. The natural sugars in ripe bananas not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to the bread's moist texture. If you find yourself with overripe bananas, don’t throw them away! Instead, use them to whip up this delightful treat that the whole family will love.

Incorporating ripe bananas into your baking not only adds moisture but also provides essential nutrients. Bananas are rich in potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, making this banana bread a healthier indulgence. You can enjoy a slice guilt-free, knowing it’s packed with goodness, and it’s a great way to sneak in some healthy fruit into your diet.

Simple Ingredients for a Classic Recipe

One of the best aspects of this moist banana bread recipe is the simplicity of the ingredients. You likely already have everything you need in your pantry. With just ripe bananas, butter, sugar, an egg, and a few pantry staples like baking soda and flour, you can create a delicious loaf without the need for complicated or hard-to-find ingredients. This accessibility makes it an ideal recipe for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike.

The straightforward nature of this recipe allows you to focus on the joy of baking rather than hunting for specialty items. Plus, the fewer ingredients mean less fuss and less cleanup, making it a win-win for busy bakers. You can easily whip it up in under an hour, making it a fantastic option for last-minute cravings or unexpected guests.

Versatile and Delicious

This moist banana bread is incredibly versatile. It can be enjoyed plain or dressed up with your favorite add-ins. Consider tossing in a handful of chocolate chips, walnuts, or dried fruit to elevate the flavor and texture. Each variation brings a unique twist to the classic recipe, allowing you to customize it to your liking. Whether you prefer a nutty crunch or a sweet chocolatey surprise, this banana bread adapts beautifully.

Moreover, this banana bread is perfect for any occasion. Serve it as a delightful breakfast alongside your morning coffee, enjoy a slice as an afternoon snack, or even serve it as a dessert. Its moistness and flavor make it a crowd-pleaser, ensuring that it will be the star of any gathering. Plus, it stores well, so you can enjoy it for days after baking!

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread

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

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter.

Combine Other Ingredients

Mix in baking soda and salt. Then add sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Add Flour

Stir in the flour until just incorporated. Do not overmix.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

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

Tips for the Best Banana Bread

To achieve the best results with your banana bread, make sure to use very ripe bananas. The darker the peel, the sweeter and more flavorful the bananas will be. 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. This will trap ethylene gas and help them ripen faster.

Additionally, avoid overmixing the batter once you add the flour. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture. Instead, mix until the flour is just incorporated to keep your banana bread light and fluffy. Remember, a few lumps are perfectly fine!

Serving Suggestions

This banana bread is delicious on its own, but it can also be enhanced with various toppings. A light spread of butter or cream cheese adds richness and flavor. For a fun twist, try adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness. You can also serve it with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced breakfast.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider toasting slices of banana bread before serving. Toasting enhances the flavors and gives a lovely crunchy exterior that contrasts nicely with the soft interior. Top it with slices of banana and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a delightful treat.

Storage and Freezing

To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing it. Slice the bread and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever the craving strikes without having to bake a new loaf.

When you're ready to eat the frozen banana bread, simply take out a slice and let it thaw at room temperature. You can also warm it up in the toaster or microwave for a few seconds for a freshly baked taste. It’s a convenient way to enjoy this delicious treat anytime!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just thaw them and mash before adding to the mixture.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

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

→ Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?

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

→ How can I tell when the banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs.