Ingredients
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup (150 g) brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk or plain yogurt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, mix the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- Add the mashed bananas and milk (or yogurt) and mix well.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in the chopped nuts if using.
- 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 loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Method
- Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor.
- Mix the batter gently to keep the bread soft and moist.
- Cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Benefits
- Rich in potassium from bananas.
- Provides fiber and carbohydrates for energy.
- Great as a breakfast, snack, or dessert.
- Can be customized with nuts or chocolate chips.
Nutrition (Per Slice, about 10 slices)
- Calories: 240
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 16 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
History
Banana bread became especially popular in the United States during the 1930s, when home bakers began using overripe bananas instead of wasting them. It remains one of the world’s most beloved quick breads because it is easy to make, moist, flavorful, and versatile.
Conclusion
This classic banana bread is moist, tender, and full of rich banana flavor with a lightly crisp golden crust. Enjoy it warm with butter, cream cheese, or a drizzle of honey, and store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.