Banana bread is more than just a cozy breakfast treat—it’s a celebration of overripe bananas turned into moist, flavorful goodness. Whether you’re a baking beginner or a seasoned pro, this easy banana bread recipe will walk you through every step. Read on to master how to make banana bread that’s soft, sweet, and perfectly golden every time.

Banana bread is more than just a cozy breakfast treat—it’s a celebration of overripe bananas turned into moist, flavorful goodness. Whether you’re a baking beginner or a seasoned pro, this easy banana bread recipe will walk you through every step. Read on to master how to make banana bread that’s soft, sweet, and perfectly golden every time.
Why Banana Bread Is a Breakfast Staple
Banana bread is beloved because it:
  • Uses up overripe bananas, reducing food waste
  • Combines pantry staples into a simple loaf
  • Delivers a moist texture that’s equally at home with coffee or tea
  • Offers endless customization options (nuts, chocolate chips, spices)
These qualities make it the best banana bread recipe to add to your weekly baking routine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients before you start:
  • 3 ripe bananas (the darker, the sweeter)
  • 1/2 cup (115 g) melted unsalted butter or neutral oil
  • 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar (or brown sugar for deeper flavor)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/2 cup mix-ins (walnuts, pecans, chocolate chips, or dried fruit)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
2. Mash Bananas and Mix Wet Ingredients
  1. In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until mostly smooth.
  2. Whisk in melted butter (or oil), sugar, eggs, and vanilla until fully combined.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
  1. Gently fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients using a rubber spatula.
  2. Stir just until no streaks of flour remain—overmixing can make your loaf dense.
  3. Fold in nuts or chocolate chips, if using.
4. Bake and Cool
  1. Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
  2. Bake 50–60 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  3. Let the loaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes.
  4. Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely before slicing to ensure the perfect crumb.
Tips for Perfect Banana Bread
  • Choose the right bananas: Overripe bananas with brown spots are ideal for sweetness and moisture.
  • Avoid overmixing: Stir until the batter is just combined to keep your bread tender.
  • Check doneness early: Ovens vary; start checking at 50 minutes to prevent overbaking.
  • Add moisture: If your kitchen is dry, place an oven-safe container of water on the lower rack to keep the loaf moist.
Variations to Try
  • Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Fold in 1 cup of semisweet chips for gooey pockets of chocolate.
  • Nutty Banana Bread: Add ¾ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
  • Coconut-Almond Banana Bread: Mix in ½ cup shredded coconut and ½ cup sliced almonds.
  • Pumpkin Spice Banana Bread: Swap ½ teaspoon cinnamon for ½ teaspoon each of nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
  • Room Temperature: Wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, banana bread stays fresh for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze sliced portions individually in zip-top bags for up to 3 months.
  • Serving: Enjoy plain, slathered with butter, or toasted and spread with cream cheese for extra indulgence.
Why This Recipe Works
This banana bread balances sweetness, texture, and flavor by combining ripe bananas with the right mix of fats, flour, and leavening. The gentle folding technique prevents gluten overdevelopment, ensuring each slice is tender yet holds together beautifully.
Now that you know how to make banana bread that’s moist, flavorful, and foolproof, it’s time to preheat your oven and bake a loaf. Share your creation on social media, tag your favorite baking friends, and become the go-to person for homemade banana bread. With this ultimate guide, you have everything you need to turn those extra bananas into golden slices of breakfast bliss—every single time. Enjoy!
Looking for more quick and delicious recipes? Check out our guides on classic zucchini bread, moist pumpkin muffins, and healthy oatmeal cookies next!