Simple Homemade Banana Bread: The Most Moist Banana Loaf Recipe Ever

Simple Homemade Banana Bread: The Most Moist Banana Loaf Recipe Ever
Are you staring at those brown, speckled bananas on your counter wondering what to do with them? Look no further! This simple homemade banana bread recipe is the perfect solution – transforming your overripe bananas into the most moist, delicious banana loaf you’ll ever taste. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this foolproof recipe guarantees bakery-quality results every time.

Banana Bread Ingredients
- 2-3 very ripe bananas (about 1 cup mashed)
- 1/3 cup melted butter (unsalted)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Bananas
Peel your ripe bananas and place them in a mixing bowl. Mash them well with a fork until smooth – the riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be!
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
Add the melted butter to the mashed bananas and mix thoroughly. Then stir in the white sugar, brown sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined – be careful not to overmix!
Step 4: Add Mix-ins
If using walnuts or chocolate chips, gently fold them into the batter at this stage.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Expert Tips for Perfect Banana Bread
- Use EXTRA ripe bananas – brown, spotty bananas have more natural sweetness and flavor
- Don’t overmix the batter – this prevents a tough texture
- Let it cool completely before slicing for clean cuts
- Store properly – wrapped well at room temperature for 2-3 days or freeze for longer storage
- Customize it – add nuts, chocolate chips, or a swirl of peanut butter
Frequently Asked Questions
How ripe should bananas be for banana bread?
The riper the better! Bananas should have brown spots on the peel and be soft to the touch. Overripe bananas provide the best flavor and moisture.
Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Yes! Substitute the egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water.
Why is my banana bread dry?
This usually happens from overbaking or overmixing the batter. Follow the baking time closely and mix just until ingredients are combined.
Can I freeze banana bread?
Absolutely! Wrap cooled banana bread tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to eat.

Simple Homemade Banana Bread: The Most Moist Banana Loaf Recipe Ever
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare Your Bananas – Peel your ripe bananas and place them in a mixing bowl. Mash them well with a fork until smooth – the riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be!
- Mix Wet Ingredients – Add the melted butter to the mashed bananas and mix thoroughly. Then stir in the white sugar, brown sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined – be careful not to overmix!
- Add Mix-ins – If using walnuts or chocolate chips, gently fold them into the batter at this stage.
- Bake to Perfection – Pour the batter into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve – Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
