Baking & Pastry > Bread Baking > Quick Breads > Banana Bread Recipe

Classic Banana Bread

Bake a moist and delicious banana bread with this simple recipe. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat any time of day.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
50-60 minutes
Servings
1 loaf (12 slices)
Ingredients
  • 3 cups All-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon Baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup Granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup Light brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large Eggs
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
  • 3 cups Mashed ripe bananas
  • 1/2 cup Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Get Started

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This will prevent the bread from sticking.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Ensure there are no lumps and everything is well combined.

Cream Butter and Sugars

In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is important for creating a tender crumb.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the mashed bananas, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Add Nuts (Optional)

If using, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil.

Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

← Classic American Biscuits Classic Brioche Recipe →

FAQ

  • How do I ripen bananas quickly?

    Place bananas in a paper bag with an apple or avocado. The ethylene gas released by these fruits will help ripen the bananas faster.
  • Can I freeze banana bread?

    Yes, you can freeze banana bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in a freezer bag. It will keep for up to 3 months.
  • What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?

    You can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce per egg as a substitute.