Banana Bread
A soft, moist banana bread with warm cinnamon and rich brown sugar flavor. This easy, no-fuss loaf is perfectly tender with a lightly crisp edge—ideal for breakfast, snacking, or serving with plenty of salted butter.
Makes: 1 loaf
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60–90 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes – 1 hour 45 minutes
Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread
This is a classic, reliable banana bread that delivers every time.
Moist and tender crumb with rich banana flavor
Warm cinnamon spice for depth and balance
Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert
Ingredients
3 bananas
1 cup + 3 tablespoons (250g) brown sugar
2 eggs
¾ cup (150g) vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 ½ cups (300g) all purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1 ½ cups walnuts (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat the oven to 325°F. Line a loaf pan with parchment paper and lightly oil any exposed areas to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large bowl, add the peeled bananas and mash with a whisk until they form a lumpy, slightly glossy paste. The pieces should be small—about the size of a raspberry or smaller.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Add the brown sugar and whisk until fully incorporated.
Whisk in the eggs, then add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is smooth and combined.
Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients
Add the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
Switch to a spatula and gently fold until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
Step 5: Add Topping (Optional)
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
If using walnuts, crush them by hand and sprinkle evenly over the top. Gently press them into the batter so they adhere while baking.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on your oven.
Check doneness with a toothpick—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is ready.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let cool slightly before removing from the pan.
Serve warm or at room temperature with plenty of salted butter.
Tips for Success
Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness
Don’t overmix the batter—this keeps the crumb soft
Check early if your oven runs hot
Let the bread rest before slicing for cleaner cuts
Variations
Add chocolate chips for a sweeter version
Swap walnuts for pecans or omit entirely
Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth
Storage
Store at room temperature for up to 3 days
Refrigerate for up to 1 week
Freeze slices for up to 2 months
