Try this easy and moist banana bread recipe, perfect for using up overripe bananas! Made with simple ingredients like mashed bananas, melted butter, and a hint of cinnamon, this classic banana bread is a favorite for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Add chocolate chips or walnuts for extra flavor, and enjoy the soft, tender texture. Great for freezing and meal prepping, this homemade banana bread recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Looking for the best banana bread? This one is quick, easy, and full of flavor!

Ingredients:
- 3-4 ripe bananas, mashed
- ⅓ cup butter, melted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional), plus extra for topping
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour an 8.5×4.5-inch loaf pan, or spray it with baking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with melted butter. Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together well using a wooden spoon.
- Sprinkle the baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt over the banana mixture. Stir until fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in the flour and your choice of chopped walnuts or chocolate chips. Mix just until the batter is smooth and there are no visible streaks of flour.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. If desired, sprinkle extra walnuts or chocolate chips on top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
- Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice into thick pieces and serve.
This banana bread is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert!
Best Banana Bread Recipe Tips
- Use Ripe Bananas: The key to flavorful banana bread is using ripe, spotty bananas. The riper the banana, the sweeter and more intense the flavor.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Once you add the flour, stir just until combined. Overmixing can make the bread dense and tough.
- Add-ins for Extra Flavor: You can mix in walnuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits for an extra flavor boost. Sprinkling some on top adds a nice touch as well.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick or knife into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done.
Can You Freeze Banana Bread?
Yes, banana bread freezes beautifully! To freeze, let the bread cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave it at room temperature or microwave individual slices for a quick snack.
How Do You Keep Banana Bread Moist?
To keep banana bread moist, store it in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap once it has cooled completely. You can also store it in the refrigerator, but to prevent it from drying out, wrap it tightly. If your banana bread starts to dry out, you can slightly warm it in the microwave or oven to restore its softness.
How to Make Banana Bread FAQs
- Can I use frozen bananas? Yes, just thaw them first and drain off any excess liquid before mashing.
- Can I make banana bread without eggs? Yes, you can substitute eggs with applesauce, yogurt, or flaxseed meal for an egg-free version.
- What’s the best flour for banana bread? All-purpose flour works best, but you can substitute it with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour if needed. Just keep in mind that the texture may change slightly.
- How long does banana bread last? When stored in an airtight container, banana bread can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.
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