Why Make This Recipe
This banana bread recipe is a classic favorite that is loved by many. It’s simple and uses ingredients you probably already have at home. Plus, it’s a great way to use up overripe bananas. Every bite is soft, moist, and bursting with sweet banana flavor. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert, this bread is sure to please everyone in your family.
How to Make The World’s Best Banana Bread
Ingredients
- 3 to 4 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Directions
- Begin your baking adventure by preheating the oven to 350°F. Take a 9×5-inch loaf pan and prepare it carefully. Grease the pan thoroughly or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, select your ripest bananas. Mash them thoroughly with a fork or potato masher. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
- Add the melted butter to the mashed bananas. The warm butter will help distribute flavor evenly throughout the batter. Next, incorporate the sugar, mixing until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly lighter in color.
- Crack in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. These ingredients will provide structure and rich flavor to your banana bread.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. Combine the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Take your time to ensure even distribution of the spices and leavening agent.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the banana mixture. Use a gentle folding motion to combine. The key is to mix just until the flour disappears – overmixing can lead to a tough, dense bread.
- If you’re using nuts, now’s the time to fold them in. Toasted nuts can add an extra layer of flavor and crunch. However, feel free to skip them if you prefer a smoother texture.
- Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring it reaches all corners. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any large air bubbles.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
How to Serve The World’s Best Banana Bread
Serve this delicious banana bread warm from the oven or let it cool to room temperature. You can enjoy it plain or spread with a little butter. For extra sweetness, try serving it with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of cream cheese.
How to Store The World’s Best Banana Bread
To keep your banana bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay good at room temperature for about 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make The World’s Best Banana Bread
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor. The blacker they are, the sweeter your bread will be.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep the bread tender. Mix just until combined.
- Feel free to add chocolate chips or dried fruit for an extra twist on flavor.
- If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup.
Variation
You can try adding spices like cardamom or ginger for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with different nuts or even coconut flakes for added texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
How do I know when the banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Yes! You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of applesauce or a flaxseed mixture for a vegan option.
The World’s Best Banana Bread
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic favorite banana bread recipe that’s simple to make and perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Ingredients
- 3 to 4 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
- Mash the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the melted butter to the mashed bananas and mix until smooth.
- Incorporate the sugar and mix until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly lighter in color.
- Crack in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, and stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the banana mixture, mixing just until the flour disappears.
- If using, fold in the chopped nuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 55 to 65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Notes
Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor. You can also add chocolate chips or dried fruit for an extra twist.