This Classic Moist Banana Bread is a deliciously moist and flavorful treat, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. With ripe bananas and simple ingredients, it’s easy to make and a great way to use up overripe bananas!

Ingredients List

For the Banana Bread

• 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg (beaten)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mash Bananas: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
3. Mix in Butter: Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas until well combined.
4. Add Sugar and Egg: Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture, then mix in the flour until just combined. Do not overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
6. Add Extras: Fold in walnuts or chocolate chips if using.

Step 2: Bake the Banana Bread

1. Pour Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
3. Cool: Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Serve

1. Slice and Enjoy: Once cooled, slice the banana bread and enjoy it plain or with butter. It’s also delicious toasted!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content per slice (assuming 10 slices):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	200
Total Fat	8g
Saturated Fat	3g
Cholesterol	30mg
Sodium	150mg
Total Carbohydrates	30g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	12g
Protein	3g

Tips for Success

To ensure your Classic Moist Banana Bread turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to keep the bread tender.
• Check for Doneness: Ovens may vary, so start checking for doneness around the 50-minute mark.

Variations

• Add Spices: Incorporate ground cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
• Different Mix-Ins: Try adding dried fruit like raisins or cranberries, or substitute the nuts with seeds for a nut-free version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.

Conclusion

This Classic Moist Banana Bread is a timeless recipe that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!

FAQs

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes! Banana bread can be made ahead of time and stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes! You can use frozen bananas; just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.