Simple Banana Bread Loaf

Featured in: Breads & Sweet Treats

This banana bread loaf delivers a moist and tender crumb with rich, natural banana flavor. Made from ripe mashed bananas, combined with basic pantry staples like flour, eggs, and a hint of vanilla, it’s simple to prepare. Optional nuts or chocolate chips can be added for texture variation. Baking takes about an hour, resulting in a comforting treat that pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or milk.

Updated on Sat, 13 Dec 2025 13:06:00 GMT
A warm slice of Simple Banana Bread, golden-brown and ready to be enjoyed. Pin It
A warm slice of Simple Banana Bread, golden-brown and ready to be enjoyed. | orbitcuisine.com

A moist, classic banana bread with a tender crumb and rich banana flavor perfect for everyday baking and enjoying with coffee or tea.

This banana bread quickly became my go-to comfort bake whenever I had ripe bananas to use up.

Ingredients

  • Produce: 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/4 cups)
  • Dairy: 115 g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted, 60 ml (1/4 cup) milk (dairy or plant-based)
  • Pantry: 200 g (1 2/3 cups) all-purpose flour, 150 g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt
  • Eggs: 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • Optional Add-ins: 80 g (1/2 cup) chopped walnuts or pecans, 80 g (1/2 cup) chocolate chips

Instructions

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Step 1:
Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line a 9x5-inch (23x13 cm) loaf pan with parchment paper.
Step 2:
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth.
Step 3:
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the mashed bananas, milk, and vanilla extract.
Step 4:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Step 5:
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 6:
Fold in nuts or chocolate chips, if using.
Step 7:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Step 8:
Bake for 50 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Step 9:
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Product image
Bake lasagna, casseroles, and roasted dishes evenly, then serve straight from oven to table.
Check price on Amazon
Product image
Bake lasagna, casseroles, and roasted dishes evenly, then serve straight from oven to table.
Check price on Amazon
Enjoy the delicious aroma of freshly baked Simple Banana Bread, perfect for breakfast. Pin It
Enjoy the delicious aroma of freshly baked Simple Banana Bread, perfect for breakfast. | orbitcuisine.com

My family loves gathering around this banana bread on weekend mornings, sharing stories and laughter over warm slices.

Tips for Perfect Banana Bread

Always measure your flour correctly by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off to avoid a dense bread.

Storing and Freezing

Wrap leftover banana bread tightly and store at room temperature for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.

Variations to Try

Try adding cinnamon, dried fruit, or substituting walnuts with pecans for different flavors and textures.

Moist slices of Simple Banana Bread with optional walnuts are displayed on a plate. Pin It
Moist slices of Simple Banana Bread with optional walnuts are displayed on a plate. | orbitcuisine.com
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Provides cushioned comfort while cooking, prepping meals, washing dishes, and standing longer in the kitchen.
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This recipe offers a simple yet delicious way to enjoy ripe bananas anytime with minimal effort.

Recipe Q&A

What is the best type of bananas to use?

Overripe bananas with brown spots offer the richest flavor and natural sweetness ideal for this loaf.

Can I substitute dairy ingredients?

Using plant-based milk and dairy-free butter alternatives works well for a dairy-free version.

How can I ensure the bread is moist?

Be careful not to overmix the batter and use plenty of ripe mashed bananas to keep the crumb tender.

What pan size works best for baking?

A 9x5-inch loaf pan lined with parchment paper ensures even baking and easy removal.

Are there any add-ins recommended?

Chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips add delightful texture and flavor enhancements.

Simple Banana Bread Loaf

Moist banana loaf with tender crumb and rich banana flavor, ideal for everyday enjoyment alongside drinks.

Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
55 mins
Time Needed
70 mins
Created by Benjamin Ward


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Portions 10 Makes

Diet Info Meat-Free

What You Need

Produce

01 3 ripe bananas, mashed (approximately 1 1/4 cups)

Dairy

01 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
02 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

Pantry

01 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
02 3/4 cup granulated sugar
03 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
04 1 teaspoon baking soda
05 1/2 teaspoon salt

Eggs

01 2 large eggs, at room temperature

Optional Add-ins

01 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
02 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Steps

Step 01

Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.

Step 02

Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth.

Step 03

Incorporate Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in eggs one at a time, then add mashed bananas, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly.

Step 04

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.

Step 05

Combine Mixtures: Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just incorporated; avoid overmixing.

Step 06

Add Optional Ingredients: Fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips, if using.

Step 07

Fill Pan and Smooth Batter: Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the surface evenly.

Step 08

Bake: Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 09

Cool: Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tools You'll Need

  • 9x5-inch loaf pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Parchment paper
  • Wire rack

Allergen Details

Review the ingredients list for potential allergens and reach out to a healthcare professional with any concerns.
  • Contains eggs, milk (if using dairy), wheat (gluten), and tree nuts (if add-ins included).
  • For dairy-free preparation, substitute plant-based milk and dairy-free butter.
  • Always verify ingredient labels for allergen content.

Nutrition Breakdown (per serving)

Details are for guidance only and shouldn’t replace advice from your doctor.
  • Calories: 210
  • Fats: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Proteins: 3 g