Moist, Soft, and Perfectly Sweet Banana Bread

Nothing beats the comforting aroma of homemade banana bread baking in the oven. This classic recipe delivers moist, tender slices full of natural banana sweetness, lightly spiced with cinnamon, and perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Whether you have overripe bananas to use up or simply crave a cozy treat, this banana bread is quick to prepare and impossible to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist, tender, and perfectly sweet banana bread every time
• Uses ripe bananas to naturally enhance sweetness
• Easy to make with pantry staples
• Great for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack
• Freezer-friendly, make ahead and enjoy later
• Can be customized with chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit

Ingredients

• Ripe bananas, mashed
• Unsalted butter, melted
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon (optional)
• Chocolate chips or chopped nuts (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas. Stir in melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
4. Fold Ingredients Together: Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined, do not overmix. Fold in chocolate chips or nuts if desired.
5. Bake the Bread
   Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Bake for 55–65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool Before Slicing
   Allow banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
7. Serve and Enjoy
   Slice and enjoy as is, or toast with a pat of butter for extra indulgence.

Tips & Variations

• Extra Moist Bread: Use overripe bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and moisture.
• Add-Ins: Stir in 1/2 cup chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, or pecans for extra texture.
• Spices: Add nutmeg or allspice for a warm, cozy flavor.
• Mini Loaves or Muffins: Divide batter into muffin tins or smaller loaf pans for giftable portions.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store banana bread in an airtight container or wrapped in foil for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Slice and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap or foil. Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Tip: Banana bread often tastes even better the next day as flavors meld and the texture becomes extra tender.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve warm with butter, cream cheese, or Nutella
• Pair with coffee, tea, or milk for breakfast or afternoon snack
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist
• Top with sliced bananas and a drizzle of honey for extra flavor
• Serve alongside fresh berries or fruit salad for brunch

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen bananas for banana bread?

Yes! Thaw and mash them before adding to your batter. Frozen bananas are often sweeter and yield moist bread.

How do I prevent banana bread from being too dense?

Use ripe bananas, do not overmix the batter, and measure flour carefully. Adding a touch of baking soda ensures lightness.

Can I make banana bread vegan?

Yes! Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flax + 3 tbsp water per egg) and use plant-based butter or oil.

How long does banana bread stay fresh?

• At room temperature: up to 3 days
• In the fridge: up to 1 week
• In the freezer: up to 3 months

Ready to Make It?

This banana bread recipe is a timeless classic, perfectly moist, tender, and bursting with banana flavor. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or a cozy dessert, this easy recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. Whip it up, share it with family and friends, and savor every slice.

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