Classic Homemade Banana Bread Recipe

If you’ve ever craved a warm, comforting treat that fills your kitchen with the nostalgic aroma of sweet bananas and baked goodness, Classic Homemade Banana Bread is the answer. With a perfectly moist crumb, a golden crust, and just the right hint of vanilla and cinnamon, this loaf is a timeless favorite for breakfast, snacks, or anytime you want to share a little love. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the world of homemade treats, this recipe is as approachable as it is delicious, and it’s sure to become a staple you’ll turn to again and again.

Classic Homemade Banana Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Classic Homemade Banana Bread lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a starring role, working together to create that signature flavor, tender texture, and inviting color that makes this loaf so irresistible. Here’s what you’ll need—and why you’ll love each one.

  • Ripe Bananas: The riper, the better! Overripe bananas add deep sweetness and moisture, making your bread extra flavorful.
  • Unsalted Butter (melted): Gives the bread a rich, buttery taste and a soft, tender crumb.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the loaf and helps create that perfect golden crust.
  • Large Eggs: Bind everything together and add structure, making the bread sliceable and soft.
  • Vanilla Extract: Infuses the bread with warm, aromatic notes that complement the bananas.
  • All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the loaf, providing just the right amount of body and chew.
  • Baking Soda: Ensures the bread rises beautifully, resulting in a light, airy texture.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out all the other flavors.
  • Ground Cinnamon (optional): Adds a cozy, spiced undertone that pairs perfectly with bananas.
  • Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (optional): For a delightful crunch and nutty flavor in every bite.

How to Make Classic Homemade Banana Bread

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking and ensure an easy release. This simple prep step sets you up for banana bread success!

Step 2: Mash the Bananas and Mix with Butter

In a large mixing bowl, mash your ripe bananas until smooth, then add the melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well blended and luscious—this will be the moist base of your Classic Homemade Banana Bread.

Step 3: Add Sugar, Eggs, and Vanilla

Whisk in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Combine until everything is fully incorporated. This step adds sweetness, richness, and a lovely aromatic touch to your batter.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if you’re using it). Mixing these dry ingredients ensures the leavening agent gets distributed evenly, so your loaf rises uniformly.

Step 5: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, gently stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps your Classic Homemade Banana Bread light and tender.

Step 6: Fold in the Nuts

If you like a little crunch, now’s the time to fold in the walnuts or pecans. They add texture and a subtle nutty flavor that complements the sweet bananas beautifully.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The kitchen will smell amazing, and the golden loaf will be hard to resist!

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the loaf set and makes slicing easier. Now, your Classic Homemade Banana Bread is ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Classic Homemade Banana Bread

Classic Homemade Banana Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Dress up your slices with a simple dusting of powdered sugar, a smear of creamy butter, or a drizzle of honey. For an extra-special touch, add fresh banana slices or a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top just before serving.

Side Dishes

Pair your warm Classic Homemade Banana Bread with a hot cup of coffee, a tall glass of cold milk, or a dollop of Greek yogurt. It’s also dreamy alongside a bowl of fresh berries or a fruit salad for a wholesome breakfast or satisfying snack.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try toasting slices and spreading with nut butter, or cut the loaf into cubes for a brunch platter. You can even transform leftovers into a decadent banana bread French toast for a weekend treat that will wow your family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, wrap your Classic Homemade Banana Bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and moist for up to three days, making it perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts or anytime snacking.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy your banana bread well into the future, simply wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. It will keep beautifully for up to three months. When a craving hits, just thaw and enjoy!

Reheating

To revive that just-baked magic, gently reheat slices in the microwave for 10–20 seconds or warm them in a low oven. This brings back the softness and enhances all those lovely flavors, making your Classic Homemade Banana Bread taste fresh and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for Classic Homemade Banana Bread?

Absolutely! Thaw your frozen bananas and drain off any excess liquid before mashing. They’ll be soft and sweet, perfect for baking.

What if I don’t have nuts—can I skip them?

Of course! Nuts are completely optional. If you prefer a smooth, classic loaf, simply leave them out, or replace them with chocolate chips for a different twist.

How do I know when my banana bread is done?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden and spring back lightly when touched.

Can I make Classic Homemade Banana Bread gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the regular flour—no other changes needed.

Why did my banana bread sink in the middle?

This can happen if the batter is overmixed or if the bread is underbaked. Make sure to combine the ingredients gently and test for doneness before removing from the oven.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the wholesome comfort of Classic Homemade Banana Bread, whether you’re baking for loved ones or simply treating yourself. Give this recipe a try and see just how easy and rewarding homemade banana bread can be—your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you!

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Classic Homemade Banana Bread Recipe

Classic Homemade Banana Bread Recipe


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4.5 from 28 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf (8–10 slices) 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Classic Homemade Banana Bread is a moist, flavorful loaf made with ripe bananas, a touch of cinnamon, and optional nuts for added texture and taste. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, this easy-to-make bread is packed with natural sweetness and comforting flavors.


Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

  • 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Optional Add-ins

  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed ripe bananas with melted unsalted butter until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
  3. Add Sugar, Eggs, and Vanilla: Stir in the granulated sugar, then beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
  4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon if using, ensuring even distribution of leavening and spices.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, folding gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can make the bread tough.
  6. Add Nuts (Optional): Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans if using, to add crunch and flavor.
  7. Transfer Batter to Pan: Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula for even baking.
  8. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the bread is cooked through.
  9. Cool: Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing to ensure the best texture.

Notes

  • Use overripe bananas with brown spots for optimal natural sweetness and richer banana flavor.
  • Banana bread can be stored at room temperature, wrapped tightly, for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
  • For longer storage, wrap the bread well and freeze; thaw before serving.
  • Optional cinnamon adds a warm spice note; omit if preferred.
  • Chopped nuts can be substituted or omitted based on preference or allergies.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 17g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

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