Basic Banana Bread - A delicious recipe by DigiDish

Basic Banana Bread

Banana bread lovers, rejoice! This simple, cozy recipe is here to transform those overripe bananas into pure magic. As your AI chef, I promise it’s foolproof, delicious, and perfect for beginners or baking pros. Let’s dive into the sweet, banana-y goodness together!

4.5 out of 5 (2 ratings)

Oh, banana bread, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways! Few things are as comforting as the smell of banana bread baking in the oven—it’s like a warm hug for your senses. Whether it’s an impromptu weekend bake or a deliberate plan to rescue those spotted bananas sitting on your counter, this recipe has your back. As your trusty AI chef, I’m here to guide you on the path to banana bread bliss—don’t you just love a baked treat that’s as easy as it is delicious?

Basic Banana Bread Recipe

What sets this banana bread recipe apart is its simplicity and adaptability. Sure, we start with those golden, overripe bananas (the mushier, the better—seriously, don’t hold back), but the magic happens with just a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. A little bit of cinnamon and vanilla elevate the flavor, while the butter keeps it rich and moist. Want to make it extra special? Don’t be shy about tossing in some chopped walnuts, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of peanut butter. It’s the kind of bread that whispers, “Make it your own!”

Now, here’s a pro tip: when you’re mixing the batter, less is more! Over-mixing can make your banana bread a little dense instead of that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture we’re after. Stir just until everything is combined, and let the oven do the rest of the work. Oh, and if you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle a little raw sugar on top before baking—it adds the loveliest golden crunch. And don’t forget to grease your loaf pan! Trust me on this one, you don’t want anything sticking when it’s time to unveil your masterpiece.

Once that banana bread has cooled (if you can possibly hold off slicing into it!), it’s ready to shine. Enjoy it as is, slathered with butter, or paired with a steaming cup of your favorite coffee or tea. Want to get creative? Try using it as the base for a decadent banana bread French toast. This recipe is beginner-friendly and endlessly customizable, so don’t let those bananas go to waste—turn them into something magical. Your future self (and your taste buds) will thank you!

Keywords: easy banana bread recipe, best homemade banana bread, beginner banana bread recipe, moist banana bread recipe, simple banana bread ideas, overripe banana baking recipes, customizable banana bread recipe

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

60 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

American

Ingredients

  • •2 to 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  • •1/3 cup melted butter
  • •1 teaspoon baking soda
  • •Pinch of salt
  • •3/4 cup sugar (use 2/3 cup for less sweet bread)
  • •1 large egg, beaten
  • •1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • •1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8-inch loaf pan.

  2. 2

    In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.

  3. 3

    Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas.

  4. 4

    Mix in the baking soda and salt.

  5. 5

    Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.

  6. 6

    Add the flour and mix gently until just incorporated. Do not overmix.

  7. 7

    Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.

  8. 8

    Bake for 60 minutes, or until a tester inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.

  9. 9

    Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Information

Calories

200 calories per slice

Protein

3g

Carbs

31g

Fat

7g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Let them thaw completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing. Thawed bananas may be slightly more liquidy, but they work well and add great flavor to the bread.

Q: What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?

A: You can replace the melted butter with an equal amount of vegetable oil, coconut oil, or even unsweetened applesauce. Keep in mind that applesauce will make the bread slightly denser and less rich.

Q: Why is my banana bread too dense or gummy?

A: This could happen if you overmix the batter. Once you add the flour, mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing develops gluten and can make the bread dense. Also, ensure your baking soda is fresh for proper leavening.

Q: Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?

A: Absolutely! You can fold in about 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruit like raisins or cranberries after mixing in the flour. Avoid adding too much, as it could affect the texture of the bread.

Q: How should I store leftover banana bread?

A: Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. For even longer storage, slice the bread, wrap the slices individually, and freeze them for up to 3 months.

Q: What adjustments should I make for high-altitude baking?

A: At high altitudes, you may need to reduce the baking soda slightly (try 3/4 teaspoon instead of 1 teaspoon) and bake at a slightly higher temperature, around 375°F (190°C). Also, check for doneness 5-10 minutes earlier, as baking times can vary.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a 1:1 substitute for the regular flour. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to maintain the structure of the bread.

Make This Recipe Your Own

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DigiDish AI