Banana bread is a classic favorite that always remains in style. Whether you're a baking beginner or an experienced home chef, this banana bread recipe will quickly become your go-to.
Packed with rich banana flavor and a moist texture, it's the perfect treat for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. What's better? It's super simple to make and only needs a few basic ingredients.
Essential Ingredients
This banana bread recipe uses basic ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here's what you need:
• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the bread.
• Baking soda: Helps the banana bread rise.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
• Butter: Adds richness and moisture.
• Brown sugar: Gives the bread sweetness and a touch of warmth.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together.
• Bananas: The star ingredient. Overripe bananas are best for this recipe as they are sweeter and mash easily.
Banana Bread Recipe
Video by Preppy Kitchen
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making banana bread is straightforward. Here's an overview of the process:
1. Prepare the dry ingredients: Mix the flour, baking soda, and salt together in a bowl.
2. Mix the wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar together until smooth. Add the eggs and mashed bananas, then mix until combined.
3. Combine the mixtures: Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Bake: Pour the batter into a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before moving it to a wire rack.
Tips for Moist Banana Bread
For extra moist banana bread, this recipe includes butter, eggs, and brown sugar, which all contribute to a rich, soft texture. The mashed bananas themselves are packed with moisture, so don't worry about the bread turning out dry. To keep the bread fresh for several days, store it properly:
• Storage: Place the bread in an airtight container or a zip-top bag with a paper towel at the bottom and top to absorb any excess moisture. This keeps the bread moist for up to four days at room temperature.
• Freezing: Banana bread freezes wonderfully. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or freeze individual slices for easy, grab-and-go portions. It lasts 2 to 4 months in the freezer.
Creative Variations
While this recipe is perfect as-is, there's plenty of room for experimentation. Many home bakers like to add extras like nuts, chocolate chips, or even a teaspoon of vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor. You can also make banana muffins instead of a loaf if you prefer individual servings.
