Simple Banana Bread Loaf (Printer-Friendly)

A moist loaf with tender crumb and rich banana taste, ideal for everyday baking and snacking.

# What You Need:

→ Produce

01 - 3 ripe bananas, mashed (approximately 1 1/4 cups)

→ Dairy

02 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
03 - 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

→ Pantry

04 - 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
05 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
07 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Eggs

09 - 2 large eggs, at room temperature

→ Optional Add-ins

10 - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
11 - 1/2 cup chocolate chips

# How to Cook:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth.
03 - Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the mashed bananas, milk, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt together.
05 - Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just incorporated, taking care not to overmix.
06 - Fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips if desired.
07 - Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top evenly.
08 - Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
09 - Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Moist texture with rich banana flavor
  • Perfect for everyday baking and enjoying with coffee or tea
02 -
  • Use very ripe bananas with lots of brown spots for extra banana flavor
  • Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or dried fruit for variation
03 -
  • Do not overmix batter to keep bread tender
  • Check doneness with toothpick inserted in center
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