Don’t Throw Away Overripe Bananas! Make Soft and Delicious Classic Banana Bread at Home | Banana Bread Recipe

Don’t Throw Away Overripe Bananas! Make Soft and Delicious Classic Banana Bread at Home | Banana Bread Recipe

Discover the best Banana Bread Recipe that’s moist, flavorful, and easy to make! Learn how to bake perfect banana bread with simple ingredients and expert tips.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55–60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8–10 slices
Difficulty: Easy

🥣 Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through your kitchen. This Classic Banana Bread Recipe is perfectly moist, rich in banana flavor, and easy enough for beginners. It’s the best way to use overripe bananas and turn them into a soft, tender loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert.

Whether you enjoy it plain, with butter, or topped with nuts and chocolate chips, this recipe guarantees bakery-quality results every time.

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🍌 Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ¼ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 3 large ripe bananas (mashed, about 1 ¼ cups)

• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

• ¾ cup (150g) brown sugar (light or dark)

• 2 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (for crunch)

• ½ cup chocolate chips (for a sweeter twist)

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for warmth and flavor)

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🧁 Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, then line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together:

• All-purpose flour

• Baking soda

• Salt
  If you’re using cinnamon, add it here too. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth (a few small lumps are okay).
Add the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
Whisk until fully combined and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula.
Mix just until combined — do not overmix, or your bread may turn dense.
If desired, fold in nuts or chocolate chips at this stage.

Step 5: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan.
Smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

(Tip: If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.)

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Remove from oven and let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy plain, or spread a little butter or nutella for an indulgent treat.

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🍯 Pro Tips for Perfect Banana Bread

1. Use overripe bananas: The darker and spottier, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.

2. Don’t overmix: Overmixing can make the bread tough — mix just until the flour disappears.

3. Add texture: Walnuts, almonds, or even shredded coconut can add a delightful crunch.

4. Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

5. Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Warm with a pat of butter or honey.

• Toast slices and top with peanut butter.

• Serve with coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast.

• Add whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.