Classic Banana Bread is a moist, tender loaf made with ripe bananas and a hint of vanilla. It’s a comforting, timeless recipe perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert.
Author:Emma Harper
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:60 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 15 minutes
Yield:1 loaf (8-10 slices) 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon if using.
In a large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Mix in the mashed bananas until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring just until combined.
Fold in chopped nuts if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture.
This banana bread freezes well for up to 3 months.
Try adding chocolate chips for a sweeter variation.