Description
This classic Banana Bread recipe delivers a moist, flavorful loaf packed with ripe bananas and warm cinnamon. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, it’s easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients and baked to golden perfection in just over an hour.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter (at room temperature)
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups mashed overripe bananas (about 4-5 bananas)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat the oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly grease a 1-pound loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and light brown sugar with an electric mixer for about 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Mix in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Add the mashed bananas and vanilla extract, mixing to combine.
- Combine Mixtures: Add the dry flour mixture all at once to the wet banana mixture. Use a spatula to stir gently just until the ingredients are combined; avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top lightly with the spatula.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-65 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick or tester into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
- Cool: Remove the banana bread from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use overripe bananas with brown spots for a sweeter, more flavorful bread.
- Room temperature butter ensures easier creaming with sugar for a lighter texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter once the flour is added to avoid tough bread.
- Store banana bread wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate to keep it fresh longer.
- You can add nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60-65 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
