Irresistibly Moist Banana Bread Recipe to Try Today 🍌

I’ll never forget the first time I baked this classic Banana Bread Recipe — the aroma filled my whole kitchen. After making it over and over, it became my go-to whenever I had ripe bananas on the counter. The crumb stays super moist and tender, and the banana flavor really shines.

Every bite feels comforting and homemade. Honestly, it’s one of the easiest and most delicious quick breads I’ve ever made. If you enjoy comforting homemade recipes like this, you might also enjoy Aglio E Olio Recipe for a simple and flavorful meal option.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bake this banana bread — one standard loaf.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour – Forms the structure of the bread.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the loaf rise properly.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warm depth of flavor.
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened – Creates a rich and tender texture.
• 3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar – Keeps the bread moist and flavorful.
• 2 large eggs, room temperature – Provide structure and stability.
• 1/3 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream – Adds moisture and softness.
• 1 and 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas – The key flavor ingredient.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Enhances overall sweetness.
• Optional: 3/4 cup chopped walnuts/pecans or 1 cup chocolate chips – Adds texture and extra flavor.

Note: This recipe makes one loaf, serving approximately 8–10 slices.

Variations

• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free yogurt.
• Lower Sugar: Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute.
• Chocolate Version: Add chocolate chips for a dessert-style bread.
• Nutty Flavor: Mix in toasted walnuts or pecans.
• Whole Wheat Option: Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour.
• Extra Spice: Add nutmeg or ginger for warmth.
• For another comforting dish that pairs well with homemade baking, you can explore Risotto Recipe as a creamy and satisfying meal idea.

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 60–65 minutes
• Total Time: About 3 hours (including cooling)

Equipment You Need

• Mixing bowls – For combining wet and dry ingredients.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer – To cream butter and sugar easily.
• Whisk – For evenly blending dry ingredients.
• Silicone spatula – For gentle folding without overmixing.
• 9×5-inch loaf pan – Standard size for proper baking.
• Cooling rack – Prevents soggy bottom while cooling.

How to Make Banana Bread?

Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and place the rack in the lower third. Grease your loaf pan thoroughly to prevent sticking. Proper preparation ensures even baking and easy removal after baking.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Mixing them first helps distribute the leavening evenly. This step ensures consistent texture in every slice.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat softened butter and brown sugar until light and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then blend in yogurt, vanilla, and mashed bananas until smooth and combined.

Combine and Bake

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix on low speed just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread soft and tender. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 60–65 minutes, loosely covering with foil halfway through to prevent over-browning.

Cool and Serve

Insert a toothpick in the center to check doneness — it should come out clean with a few moist crumbs. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about one hour. Remove carefully, slice, and enjoy.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

• I always use very ripe bananas with brown spots — they give the best sweetness.
• I avoid overmixing after adding flour to keep the texture soft.
• I sometimes sprinkle a little brown sugar on top before baking for a crispy crust.
• Adding chocolate chips makes it more indulgent and family-friendly.
• Letting the bread cool completely improves slicing and flavor.

How to Serve Banana Bread?

Serve warm slices with butter or cream cheese for breakfast. For a dessert twist, pair it with vanilla ice cream or drizzle with honey. You can garnish with sliced bananas, chopped nuts, or a light dusting of powdered sugar. It also looks beautiful on a wooden board for brunch gatherings.

Nutritional Information

Approximate values per slice:

• Calories: 220–260 kcal
• Protein: 4–5g
• Carbohydrates: 30–35g
• Fat: 8–10g

(Nutrition may vary depending on add-ins.)

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing

Wrap the banana bread tightly and store at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 1 week.

Freezing

Wrap the fully cooled loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3–4 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Warm slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or lightly toast them. This restores softness and enhances flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this banana bread is a must-try:

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and beginner-friendly steps.
• Extremely Moist: Stays soft for days without drying out.
• Highly Customizable: Works with nuts, chocolate, or spices.
• Perfect for Any Time: Great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make ahead and enjoy anytime.

This banana bread recipe is truly reliable, comforting, and delicious. Once you bake it, it will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen! 🍌✨

Ben Carraoli

Banana Bread Recipe

I’ll never forget the first time I baked this classic banana bread — the aroma filled my whole kitchen. After making it over and over, it became my go-to whenever I had ripe bananas on the counter. The crumb stays super moist and tender, and the banana flavor really shines.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Total Time 3 hours hrs

Servings: 8

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups 250g all-purpose flour – Forms the structure of the bread.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the loaf rise properly.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warm depth of flavor.
• 1/2 cup 113g unsalted butter, softened – Creates a rich and tender texture.
• 3/4 cup 150g brown sugar – Keeps the bread moist and flavorful.
• 2 large eggs room temperature – Provide structure and stability.
• 1/3 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream – Adds moisture and softness.
• 1 and 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas – The key flavor ingredient.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Enhances overall sweetness.
• Optional: 3/4 cup chopped walnuts/pecans or 1 cup chocolate chips – Adds texture and extra flavor.

Method

 

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and place the rack in the lower third. Grease your loaf pan thoroughly to prevent sticking. Proper preparation ensures even baking and easy removal after baking.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Mixing them first helps distribute the leavening evenly. This step ensures consistent texture in every slice.
3. In a large bowl, beat softened butter and brown sugar until light and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then blend in yogurt, vanilla, and mashed bananas until smooth and combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix on low speed just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread soft and tender. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 60–65 minutes, loosely covering with foil halfway through to prevent over-browning.
5. Insert a toothpick in the center to check doneness — it should come out clean with a few moist crumbs. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about one hour. Remove carefully, slice, and enjoy.

Notes

• I always use very ripe bananas with brown spots — they give the best sweetness.
• I avoid overmixing after adding flour to keep the texture soft.
• I sometimes sprinkle a little brown sugar on top before baking for a crispy crust.
• Adding chocolate chips makes it more indulgent and family-friendly.
• Letting the bread cool completely improves slicing and flavor.