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 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Enjoy the delightful flavors and comforting aroma of this Classic Moist Banana Bread. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert!

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2025-12-28T19:40:03.788Z

This Classic Moist Banana Bread is a family favorite passed down through generations. Its rich banana flavor and moist texture make it irresistible!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Soft and moist texture that stays fresh for days
Deliciously sweet with the perfect hint of spice
Versatile - enjoy it plain or add nuts and chocolate chips

      

The Perfect Ripe Bananas

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your banana bread, using ripe bananas is crucial. Look for bananas that are heavily speckled with brown spots, as this indicates their sweetness and natural sugars have developed. Overripe bananas are not only easier to mash but also infuse the bread with a rich banana flavor that enhances the overall taste.

If you have bananas that are not yet ripe, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag at room temperature. This traps the ethylene gas they emit and helps them ripen faster. Just check them daily until they reach that perfect level of ripeness for your baking.

Tips for Storage

To keep your banana bread fresh and moist, proper storage is essential. Once it has cooled completely, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will prevent it from drying out and help maintain its delightful texture. You can also place it in an airtight container to extend its freshness.

Banana bread can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Slice the bread before freezing, so you can easily take out individual pieces. Wrap slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag, where they can be stored for up to three months.

Customization Options

One of the best things about this classic banana bread recipe is its versatility. You can customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a nutty crunch, add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. If you're a chocolate lover, fold in some chocolate chips for a decadent twist.

For a healthier version, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or incorporating oats for added fiber. You can also reduce the sugar slightly or use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. These adjustments will not only enhance the flavor but also make your banana bread a bit more nutritious.

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 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Make sure your bananas are ripe for the best flavor!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix the Butter and Bananas

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

Combine Ingredients

Mix in the baking soda and salt. Then, add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Finally, stir in the flour until just combined.

Pour into Pan

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

Bake

Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious banana bread with a cup of coffee or tea!

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of day. For breakfast, serve warm slices with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. You can also enjoy it toasted, which adds an extra layer of flavor and texture. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful morning treat.

For an afternoon snack or dessert, consider serving banana bread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can even top it with fresh fruit like berries or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra special touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the most common mistakes when making banana bread is overmixing the batter. Mixing too much can lead to a dense and tough texture. To prevent this, mix the ingredients until just combined; small lumps are perfectly fine and will bake out during cooking.

Another mistake is not measuring the ingredients correctly. Baking is a science, and even a small discrepancy in ingredient measurements can affect the final result. Use proper measuring cups and spoons, and be sure to level off dry ingredients for accuracy.

Nutritional Information

Banana bread can be a nutritious option when made with wholesome ingredients. It provides essential nutrients such as potassium from bananas and can be a good source of energy. Depending on your ingredient choices, it can also offer dietary fiber, especially if you use whole wheat flour or add oats.

While it’s a delicious treat, moderation is key, especially if you're watching your sugar intake. Consider enjoying a slice as part of a balanced diet, and don’t hesitate to experiment with healthier substitutions to make it even more beneficial.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, frozen bananas work great! Just thaw them and mash before using.

→ How do I store the banana bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze banana bread?

Absolutely! Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I add to the banana bread?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits for extra flavor!