Single-Serve Banana Bread Recipe
Craving that cozy, nostalgic banana bread magic but don’t want to wrestle with a whole loaf? Say hello to Single-Serve Banana Bread: your soft, golden ticket to instant comfort. This delightfully quick little treat bakes up with all the buttery, sweet character of classic banana bread, but in a perfectly portioned ramekin or mug—no leftovers to tempt you tomorrow or dishes for days. Whether you’re winding down from a long day or need a sweet pick-me-up, this recipe is about bringing the joy (and aroma!) of freshly baked banana bread straight to your kitchen without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Single-Serve Banana Bread is in its simplicity: every ingredient plays a role in creating that tender crumb, golden hue, and irresistible banana flavor. No fancy equipment, nothing hard to pronounce—just wholesome basics you probably already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need (and why!):
- Ripe banana: The riper, the better—a spotty brown peel means maximum banana sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Melted butter or coconut oil: Adds richness and keeps the bread super moist; coconut oil brings a subtle tropical note!
- Brown sugar or maple syrup: Both add depth, but brown sugar gives a classic caramel warmth, while maple syrup lends gentle earthiness.
- Egg yolk: Just the yolk makes for a richer, silkier crumb without overbaking your single portion.
- Vanilla extract: A splash for that bakery-style aroma and flavor enhancement.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone here, holding everything together and creating just the right amount of fluffiness.
- Baking powder: Our trusty leavener, ensuring each bite is light and tender!
- Pinch of salt: Essential for defining flavors and balancing sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon: Just a hint adds coziness and that classic spiced aroma.
- Chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional): For those who love a crunch or a burst of gooey chocolate in every bite.
How to Make Single-Serve Banana Bread
Step 1: Prep Your Ramekin or Mug
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Select a small ramekin or oven-safe mug and lightly grease it with a touch of butter, oil, or nonstick spray. This guarantees that your Single-Serve Banana Bread pops out easily when it’s time to dig in.
Step 2: Mash the Banana
Grab a small bowl and mash your ripe banana until it’s as smooth as possible. The softer your banana, the easier this step will be, unlocking all that luscious flavor and moisture for your little loaf.
Step 3: Mix in Wet Ingredients
Add melted butter or coconut oil, brown sugar or maple syrup, the egg yolk, and vanilla extract to your mashed banana. Stir well until everything is thoroughly combined—the mixture should look creamy and tempting already!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Sprinkle in the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, taking care not to overmix. You want to keep the batter light so your Single-Serve Banana Bread stays fluffy.
Step 5: Add Mix-Ins (Optional)
If you’re feeling indulgent, stir in a tablespoon of chopped walnuts or chocolate chips. This is where you get to personalize your banana bread, giving it extra texture or melty pockets of chocolate.
Step 6: Bake
Transfer the batter to your prepared ramekin. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Let it cool for a few minutes—if you can possibly resist!
Step 7: Serve and Savor
Enjoy your beautiful, freshly baked Single-Serve Banana Bread warm, straight from the ramekin or mug. Every bite is cozy, homey, and oh-so-satisfying.
How to Serve Single-Serve Banana Bread
Garnishes
Dress up your little loaf with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt, or a drizzle of honey. If you’re feeling extra fancy, a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few banana slices on top transform your Single-Serve Banana Bread from simple to showstopping.
Side Dishes
Pair this treat with a steaming cup of coffee or hot cocoa for the ultimate comfort pairing, or try it alongside a fresh berry salad if you want to lighten things up. It’s just as lovely for breakfast as it is for dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Single-Serve Banana Bread right in the mug for that trendy café vibe, or gently unmold it onto a pretty plate and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an instant upscale dessert. For brunches, consider making several in colorful ramekins—everyone gets their own!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If by some miracle you have leftovers, cover your Single-Serve Banana Bread tightly and store it at room temperature for up to 24 hours, or refrigerate for up to two days. The crumb stays soft, especially if you reheat it gently before eating.
Freezing
Want to save it for a rainy day? Let your banana bread cool completely, then wrap it in plastic wrap and tuck it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll keep deliciously for up to two months—just defrost and enjoy whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
To recapture that just-baked warmth, microwave your Single-Serve Banana Bread for 15–20 seconds, or pop it in a 300°F oven for 5–8 minutes. It perks right up, turning soft and fragrant all over again.
FAQs
Can I make Single-Serve Banana Bread in the microwave?
Absolutely! For an even speedier treat, simply microwave your batter on high for 90 seconds to 2 minutes. Keep an eye on it toward the end so it doesn’t overcook. It comes out tender and moist—just let it cool slightly before digging in!
What if I only have overripe bananas?
That’s perfect! Overripe bananas are extra sweet and mash up beautifully, making your Single-Serve Banana Bread even more flavorful and soft. It’s actually the secret weapon of all great banana bread bakers.
Can I make this recipe with gluten-free flour?
Yes, you can swap in your favorite measure-for-measure gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary a touch, but you’ll still get a delicious, satisfying result. Just make sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well.
Can I use a whole egg instead of just the yolk?
It’s best to use just the yolk for the intended rich, moist crumb in a single-serving size. Using the whole egg can make the bread a bit too wet and eggy, but if you don’t mind a different texture, go ahead and give it a try!
What mix-ins taste best with Single-Serve Banana Bread?
Chocolate chips and walnuts are always classic, but pecans, shredded coconut, or even a swirl of Nutella or peanut butter make amazing additions. Let your cravings guide you—there’s no wrong way to make this mini banana bread your own!
Final Thoughts
Next time you spot that lone ripe banana on your counter, treat yourself to the cozy goodness of Single-Serve Banana Bread. It’s quick, warm, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to lift your spirits. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again tomorrow!
Print
Single-Serve Banana Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a delicious single-serve banana bread that is quick and easy to make. This moist and flavorful treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings without the need to bake a whole loaf.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 medium ripe banana mashed
- 1 tablespoon melted butter or coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or maple syrup
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- pinch of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a small ramekin or oven-safe mug.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a small bowl, mash the banana until smooth. Stir in melted butter, brown sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Add dry ingredients: Add flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon; mix until just incorporated. Fold in walnuts or chocolate chips if using.
- Bake: Transfer the batter into the prepared ramekin. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving warm.
Notes
- This recipe can also be made in the microwave for a quicker version: microwave on high for 90 seconds to 2 minutes.
- Add a dollop of peanut butter or Nutella on top for extra indulgence.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ramekin
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 17 g
- Sodium: 140 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
