Breakfast Deserts

Classic Moist Banana Bread

Name: Classic Moist Banana Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 10
Ingredients: 3 medium ripe bananas; ½ cup; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp cinnamon; ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans; ½ cup chocolate chips

September 3, 2025

Servings: 10 Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins Difficulty: Beginner

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Introduction

Few baked goods are as timeless and comforting as Classic Moist Banana Bread. It’s the perfect way to use overripe bananas, filling your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma as it bakes. This recipe creates a loaf that’s soft, fluffy, tender, and perfectly sweetened. It’s ideal for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert when paired with a cup of coffee or tea.

Banana bread is one of those recipes that never goes out of style. Every family seems to have their version, but this one stands out for its balanced sweetness, rich banana flavor, and irresistibly moist texture.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love Classic Moist Banana Bread because it’s the perfect combination of comfort, nostalgia, and simplicity. Every bite feels like a warm hug—it’s soft, tender, and filled with natural sweetness from ripe bananas. I also love how forgiving and versatile this recipe is. Even if you’re a beginner baker, it always turns out moist, flavorful, and delicious.

What makes it extra special is the aroma that fills the kitchen while it bakes—it’s cozy and inviting, almost impossible to resist. I also love that it’s a great way to use up overripe bananas, transforming something ordinary into something extraordinary. Whether enjoyed plain, with a spread of butter, or jazzed up with chocolate chips or nuts, this banana bread is always a crowd-pleaser.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Uses overripe bananas – turns food waste into a treat.
Easy and foolproof – simple steps, perfect for beginners.
Moist and flavorful – never dry or crumbly.
Customizable – add nuts, chocolate, or spices for variety.
Great for sharing – makes a thoughtful homemade gift.

Recipe Details

Cuisine: American
Course: Breakfast / Snack / Dessert
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 10–12 slices
Calories: ~200 per slice

Ingredients

3 medium ripe bananas (mashed)
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
¾ cup granulated sugar (or ½ cup brown sugar for richer flavor)
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
½ tsp cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
½ cup chocolate chips (optional, for extra indulgence)

Simple Cooking Directions

Mash bananas, mix with melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
Add dry ingredients and stir until combined.
Pour batter into a greased loaf pan.
Bake until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool before slicing.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prep

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, mash bananas until smooth.
Stir in melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until combined.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
Gently fold dry mixture into the wet mixture—do not overmix.

Step 4: Add Extras (Optional)

Fold in nuts, chocolate chips, or other mix-ins.

Step 5: Bake

Pour batter into the prepared pan.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Allow bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

How to Serve

Serve warm with butter, cream cheese, or nut butter.
Pair with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.
Slice and toast for a cozy breakfast.
Can also be used to make banana bread French toast!

Additional Recipe Tips

Use very ripe bananas with lots of brown spots for maximum flavor.
Do not overmix the batter—this keeps the bread soft and tender.
For a bakery-style look, slice a banana in half lengthwise and place on top before baking.
If bread browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil during baking.

Variations

Nutty Banana Bread – Add ¾ cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread – Stir in ½–1 cup chocolate chips.
Healthy Banana Bread – Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour and use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar.
Coconut Banana Bread – Add shredded coconut for tropical flavor.
Spiced Banana Bread – Mix in nutmeg, ginger, or cloves for warmth.

Freezing & Storage

Room Temperature: Store wrapped or in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps up to 1 week (wrap tightly to prevent drying).
Freezer: Wrap slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven.

Special Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls
9×5-inch loaf pan
Whisk and spatula
Potato masher (for bananas)
Wire cooling rack

Conclusion

Classic Moist Banana Bread is one of those beloved recipes that always feels like home. It’s simple, cozy, and versatile, with a perfect balance of sweetness and banana flavor. Whether you enjoy it plain, with nuts, or loaded with chocolate, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. With easy prep, pantry ingredients, and a foolproof method, this recipe is a must-try that you’ll return to again and again.

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