Easy One-Bowl Banana Bread

Introduction

Easy One-Bowl Banana Bread is the ultimate quick and comforting bake, perfect for when you want something sweet, cozy, and homemade without a sink full of dirty dishes. This recipe is all about simplicity—you just need one bowl, a whisk or spatula, and a handful of pantry staples. The result? A moist, tender, and flavorful banana bread that tastes like it took hours to make.

It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for busy mornings, last-minute guests, or when you just need to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. The aroma of banana bread baking in the oven is enough to make any house feel warm and inviting.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it proves that homemade baking doesn’t have to be complicated. With only one bowl to clean, it’s quick, efficient, and perfect for busy days. The texture is moist and soft, while the banana flavor shines beautifully. It’s also endlessly customizable—add chocolate chips, walnuts, or a swirl of Nutella, and it instantly feels new every time.

Most importantly, it feels nostalgic and comforting. This banana bread always makes me think of cozy weekends, family gatherings, or sneaky slices with a cup of tea.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Beginner-friendly: Simple, fail-proof steps.
• Quick cleanup: Only one bowl and one spoon to wash.
• Perfect for ripe bananas: A delicious way to reduce waste.
• Versatile: Works as breakfast, snack, or dessert.
• Crowd-pleasing: Everyone loves a slice of warm, moist banana bread.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 55–65 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including cooling)
• Servings: 10 slices
• Calories: ~210 per slice

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: American Comfort Food
• Course: Breakfast | Snack | Dessert

Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas (mashed, about 1 ¼ cups)
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil (or melted butter)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon (optional, for warmth)

Optional add-ins:

• ½ cup chocolate chips
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Simple Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, mash bananas with a fork until smooth.
3. Add sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Whisk until well combined.
4. Sprinkle flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon on top. Fold gently into the wet mixture until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Stir in optional add-ins if using.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool fully before slicing.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare the pan: Grease and line your loaf pan to ensure easy removal.
2. Mash bananas: Use a fork or potato masher until creamy.
3. Mix wet ingredients: Add sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla directly into the same bowl.
4. Add dry ingredients: Sprinkle flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Fold gently with a spatula.
5. Customize: Stir in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit if desired.
6. Bake: Pour batter into pan, bake until golden brown and fragrant.
7. Cool & enjoy: Let it rest before slicing for the best texture.

How to Serve

• Serve warm with butter or cream cheese.
• Pair with coffee or tea for a cozy snack.
• Use it as a base for French toast by dipping slices in egg mixture and frying.
• Spread with Nutella or peanut butter for a decadent twist.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Don’t overmix the batter; it keeps the bread moist.
• Use very ripe bananas (the browner, the better).
• For a bakery-style look, slice a banana lengthwise and lay it on top before baking.
• Tent with foil if the top browns too quickly while baking.

Variations

• Chocolate Chip Banana Bread – Stir in ½ cup chocolate chips.
• Nutty Banana Bread – Add walnuts, pecans, or almonds.
• Coconut Banana Bread – Mix in ½ cup shredded coconut.
• Gluten-Free Version – Use a gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan Version – Replace eggs with flax eggs and use oil instead of butter.

Freezing & Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic and foil, or store in freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat slices in the microwave.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Fork or potato masher
• Whisk or spatula
• Wire cooling rack

Conclusion

Easy One-Bowl Banana Bread is proof that baking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. With minimal cleanup, simple steps, and pantry-friendly ingredients, you’ll have a loaf that’s moist, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed plain, toasted, or with your favorite add-ins, this recipe will quickly become your go-to whenever you have ripe bananas.