Why Make This Recipe
Classic Banana Bread is beloved for its warm, comforting flavor and moist texture. It’s a fantastic way to use overripe bananas, turning what could be waste into a delicious sweet treat. This recipe is simple enough for all baking levels, making it a perfect choice for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Plus, it’s customizable! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even adjust the sweetness to your liking.
How to Make Classic Banana Bread
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 1/3 cups mashed overripe bananas (about 4-5 bananas)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the beaten eggs to the butter mixture and mix well.
- Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until everything is combined.
- Gently fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- If you want, fold in the chopped nuts and/or chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top.
- Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Classic Banana Bread
Classic Banana Bread is best served warm, straight from the oven, or at room temperature. You can enjoy it as is or spread a bit of butter on top for extra flavor. It pairs well with coffee or tea, making it a great snack for breakfast, brunch, or any time of the day.
How to Store Classic Banana Bread
To store your banana bread, let it cool completely and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place it in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Classic Banana Bread
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness. The more spots on the bananas, the better!
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated to keep the bread tender.
- If you want a richer banana flavor, add a little more mashed bananas, but balance it with flour and baking soda.
Variation
You can easily customize your Classic Banana Bread! Add in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. You might also try substituting half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen bananas for banana bread?
Yes! Just thaw them first and mash them well before adding to your batter.
2. How can I tell when my banana bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick or a cake tester in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your bread is done.
3. Can I add other fruits to the banana bread?
Absolutely! Chopped apples or berries can make a great addition. Just keep an eye on the moisture they might add to the batter.
Classic Banana Bread
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 ⅓ cups mashed overripe bananas (about 4-5 bananas) Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Ingredients
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans Optional
- ½ cup chocolate chips Optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the beaten eggs to the butter mixture and mix well.
- Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until everything is combined.
- Gently fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- If desired, fold in the chopped nuts and/or chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top.
Baking
- Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
