Easy Banana Bread Recipe: A Simple Delight
This easy banana bread recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and anyone looking for a quick and delicious treat. It's moist, flavorful, and requires minimal ingredients and effort. Let's get baking!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed: The riper, the better! Overripe bananas provide the most sweetness and moisture.
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil: Adds moisture and richness.
- 1 egg: Binds the ingredients together.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adjust to your sweetness preference. You can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the bread.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: The leavening agent, crucial for a light and fluffy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
- Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips, walnuts, or pecans for added texture and flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these easy steps to create your perfect banana bread.
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
Step 2: Mash Bananas
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until mostly smooth. A few small chunks are okay.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the oil, egg, sugar, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Mix well until everything is combined.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Do not overmix. Overmixing can result in a tough banana bread.
Step 5: Add Mix-ins (Optional)
If using, gently fold in your choice of chocolate chips, nuts, or other mix-ins.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool & Enjoy
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Banana Bread:
- Use very ripe bananas: The riper, the sweeter and moister your bread will be.
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough bread.
- Check for doneness: Use a wooden skewer or toothpick to ensure the bread is fully baked.
- Let it cool completely: This allows the bread to set properly.
- Store properly: Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
This easy banana bread recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the delicious aroma and taste of homemade goodness! Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins to create your own unique variations. Happy baking!
