Easy Banana Bread Loaf
Easy Banana Bread Loaf is a classic, comforting bake that turns ripe bananas into a soft, moist, and wonderfully fragrant loaf. It is perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or a simple homemade dessert. This recipe is loved because it is easy, reliable, and made with everyday ingredients, yet the result always feels special. Each slice is tender, lightly sweet, and full of warm banana flavor.
Ingredients
3 ripe bananas, mashed, ½ cup unsalted butter melted or vegetable oil, ¾ cup granulated sugar or brown sugar, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon optional.
Preparing the Batter
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a loaf pan. In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Add the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, then mix until well combined. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture and stir gently just until combined. Do not overmix, as this keeps the bread soft and tender.
Baking the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil during the last part of baking.
Cooling and Serving
Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve plain, with butter, or with a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
Tips
Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture. Do not overmix the batter. Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts if you like extra texture.
Storage
Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen in slices for longer storage.
