Banana Bread Recipe

Few baked goods are as universally loved as a banana bread recipe. Soft, moist, and naturally sweet, this treat has become a staple in kitchens around the world. Whether you’re looking for a good banana bread recipe to use up overripe bananas or searching for the best banana loaf recipe that tastes like home, this one ticks all the boxes.

Banana bread is endlessly adaptable. From a plain banana loaf bread recipe to indulgent versions like chocolate chip banana nut bread recipe, there’s a style for every craving. The key lies in simple ingredients and a method that guarantees a moist crumb every single time.

Banana Bread Recipe | Moist & Easy Banana Loaf

Recipe by Emma Cooper

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

240

kcal

Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
½ cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts (optional add-in)
¾ cup sugar (brown sugar recommended)
½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Directions

Preheat oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Mash bananas: In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Stir in melted butter.
Mix wet ingredients: Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Whisk until combined.
Add dry ingredients: Sift in flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Mix gently until just combined—do not overmix.
Optional add-ins: Fold in chocolate chips or nuts if desired.
Bake: Pour batter into loaf pan and bake 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool & serve: Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition (per slice)

Calories: ~240 kcal
Protein: 4g
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 18g

Why This Is the Best Banana Bread Recipe

This loaf is moist, tender, and flavorful thanks to ripe bananas and a balanced ratio of butter, sugar, and flour. It’s not only a great banana bread recipe, but also adaptable into several variations. Many home bakers call it the highest rated banana bread recipe because it never fails.

If you love nostalgic recipes, you might also enjoy our How to Make Bread Stuffing Balls 1940s Recipe another classic from the past.

Delicious Variations

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Recipe – Add ½ cup chocolate chips for melty sweetness.
Banana and Chocolate Chip Bread Recipe – A kid-friendly twist with both banana and chocolate flavor.
Banana Chocolate Chip Loaf Recipe – Denser and richer, perfect for dessert.
Chocolate Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins – Use the same batter, bake in muffin tins, and add cocoa powder for double chocolate goodness.
Banana Banana Bread Recipe – Double the banana for extra flavor intensity.

Tips for Perfect Banana Bread

Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moistness.
Avoid overmixing the batter—this keeps the crumb tender.
Sprinkle extra chocolate chips or nuts on top before baking for a bakery-style look.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze slices for later.

For more comforting sweets, don’t miss our Fig Cookie Recipe, another homemade favorite.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make banana bread without butter?
Yes substitute with coconut oil or vegetable oil for a slightly different flavor.

2. How do I keep banana bread moist?
Don’t overbake, and wrap the loaf tightly once cooled to lock in moisture.

3. Can I make banana bread healthier?
Yes swap part of the flour for whole wheat, use honey instead of sugar, or add protein powder.

Final Thoughts

This amazing banana bread recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Whether you stick with the classic or try a twist like the banana bread recipe chocolate chips version, you’ll find yourself baking it again and again.

If you’re after comfort bakes, also explore our Brown Sugar Icing Recipe, perfect for drizzling over warm slices of banana loaf.