Banana Bread
A moist and flavorful banana bread recipe made with ripe bananas and warm spices, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or desserts.
Servings: 10 slices
Calories: 180kcal
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 2 cups very ripe bananas, mashed (approximately 4 large bananas) The key to a moist bread!
- ½ cup granulated cane sugar or packed brown sugar Adds sweetness and depth.
- ½ cup melted unsalted butter or neutral vegetable oil Richness that makes it tender.
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature Bonding the ingredients for a fluffy texture.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract For a fragrant flavor boost.
Dry Ingredients
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour Just enough structure to hold it together.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda Essential for a perfect rise.
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt Enhances overall flavors.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon Brings warmth and spice.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg A touch of nutty sweetness.
Add-ins
- ½ cup walnuts, coarsely chopped Adds crunch and richness.
- 2 tablespoons reserved walnuts for topping For a beautiful finish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with butter or oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, use a fork or potato masher to mash the bananas until mostly smooth, leaving a few small chunks for texture.
- Add the sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas and whisk until well combined and smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture until just combined.
- Stir in the chopped walnuts, reserving 2 tablespoons for the topping.
Baking
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top; sprinkle the reserved walnuts over the surface.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, checking for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center.
Cooling
- Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack for complete cooling before slicing.
Notes
To elevate your banana bread, use ultra-ripe bananas, or consider adding chocolate chips or dried fruits for variations. Serve warm with creamy butter or honey.