Savor the comforting aroma and delicious taste of homemade Classic Banana Bread with this simple and timeless recipe.
Made with ripe bananas, pantry staples, and a hint of warm spices, this moist and flavorful bread is perfect for breakfast, snack time, or anytime you crave a little sweetness.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.
Let’s dive into how to make this beloved treat!
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter or vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Equipment
Mixing bowl
Wooden spoon or spatula
9×5-inch loaf pan
Parchment paper or cooking spray
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth.
Add the melted butter or vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Stir until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove the banana bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Facts
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.
Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of loaf)
Calories: 180 kcal
Total Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrates: 28g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 13g
Protein: 2g
Health Benefits
Classic Banana Bread offers more than just delicious flavor – it also provides some nutritional benefits.
Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6, which are essential for heart health, immune function, and energy metabolism.
Additionally, whole wheat flour adds fiber, while the use of unsaturated fats like vegetable oil or melted butter can help support heart health.
Enjoying a slice of this banana bread as part of a balanced diet can contribute to overall well-being.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas for banana bread?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas for banana bread.
Thaw them before mashing and use any excess liquid in the recipe.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the banana bread?
Yes, feel free to customize your banana bread by adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to the batter before baking.
How should I store leftover banana bread?
Store leftover banana bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Can I make banana bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can make banana bread gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Can I freeze banana bread?
Yes, you can freeze banana bread.
Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months.