Description
This classic banana bread recipe yields a moist, flavorful loaf packed with ripe bananas. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, it’s loved for its rich banana flavor and tender crumb. Easy to prepare and wonderfully versatile, this banana bread tastes fantastic toasted or fresh from the oven.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 ⅓ cups mashed overripe bananas (about 4-5 medium bananas)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon salt, stirring to evenly distribute.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat ¾ cup brown sugar and ½ cup softened butter using an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Eggs and Bananas: Stir the 2 beaten eggs and 2 ⅓ cups mashed overripe bananas into the butter and sugar mixture until well blended, ensuring a uniform wet batter.
- Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the banana mixture into the dry flour mixture until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Bread: Let the banana bread cool in the loaf pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use overripe bananas with plenty of brown spots for maximum sweetness and flavor.
- Allow the bread to cool before slicing to maintain its structure and prevent crumbling.
- The loaf can be toasted for a warm, slightly crisp texture.
- Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Add nuts or chocolate chips if desired for variation.
