The Best Homemade Banana Bread Recipe (Simple and Delicious)

Banana bread is one of the most loved comfort foods around the world. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and tastes amazing whether you eat it for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. If you have overripe bananas on your counter, don’t throw them away—use them to make this soft, moist, and flavorful banana bread!

In this article, you’ll learn how to make banana bread step-by-step with clear instructions and helpful tips. This recipe has been tested and follows safe baking practices shared by trusted chefs and food bloggers.

🍌 Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread

✅ Easy to prepare – no mixer required
✅ Moist and full of flavor
✅ Perfect for using ripe bananas
✅ Freezer-friendly for meal prep
✅ Kid-approved and great for lunchboxes

🍽️ Ingredients You’ll Need

This banana bread recipe uses ingredients you likely already have at home:

3 medium ripe bananas (mashed, about 1 cup)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (or neutral oil)
3/4 cup brown sugar (or white sugar)
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
(Optional) 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon for extra flavor
(Optional) 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips

🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe follows the classic method used by top food creators like Sally’s Baking Addiction and King Arthur Baking.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with baking paper.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

Peel and mash your ripe bananas in a large bowl with a fork or masher until smooth.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Add the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas.
Whisk until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet banana mix. Stir gently until just combined.
Do not overmix—this is key for soft banana bread.

Step 5: Add Extras (Optional)

Fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips if desired.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

👩‍🍳 Tips for Perfect Banana Bread

Use very ripe bananas: The darker the peel, the sweeter and softer the banana.
Do not overmix: This can make the bread dense or chewy.
Check for doneness: Ovens vary—always use a toothpick test.
Let it cool completely before slicing for clean cuts and best flavor.

🧊 How to Store Banana Bread

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days.
For longer freshness, keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Freeze slices individually and wrap them tightly—great for on-the-go snacks!

🍫 Banana Bread Variations

Want to try something different? Here are a few fun twists:

Banana Nut Bread – Add toasted walnuts or pecans
Chocolate Banana Bread – Mix in cocoa powder and chocolate chunks
Banana Muffins – Bake in a muffin tray (reduce baking time to 20–25 minutes)
Gluten-Free Version – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend

✅ Safe & Trusted Method

This banana bread recipe is based on tested methods from:

BBC Good Food
Sally’s Baking Addiction
King Arthur Baking Company

All recommend a safe internal temperature of 93°C to 96°C (200°F to 205°F) when measured with a food thermometer for proper baking. A clean toothpick test is a simple alternative for home bakers.

🍞 Final Thoughts

Banana bread is a timeless classic that brings comfort and joy with every bite. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or friends, this recipe is a safe, tasty, and satisfying choice. Don’t wait for the bananas to go bad—turn them into something wonderful today!

📌 Save this recipe and share it with your fellow banana bread lovers!
Let us know in the comments: What’s your favorite add-in? Nuts, chocolate, or something else?