Pin it There is nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked banana bread filling your home. This moist and tender banana bread variation is the ultimate versatile treat, serving as a satisfying breakfast or a delightful afternoon snack. Whether you crave the indulgence of chocolate or the earthy crunch of walnuts, this easy-to-follow American classic is designed to please every palate.
Pin it Preparing this loaf is a breeze, taking only 15 minutes of active prep time. It is a wonderful way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter, turning them into a golden, delicious bread that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/4 cups)
- 3/4 cup (130 g) chocolate chips OR 3/4 cup (90 g) chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- 1. Prep the Oven and Pan
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch (23x13 cm) loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
- 2. Whisk Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- 3. Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- 4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- 5. Incorporate Bananas
- Mix in the mashed bananas until well combined.
- 6. Combine Wet and Dry
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined.
- 7. Add Mix-ins
- Fold in chocolate chips or nuts, if using.
- 8. Fill the Pan
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- 9. Bake
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- 10. Cool and Serve
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To achieve the best texture, avoid overmixing the batter once you add the dry ingredients; mix until just combined to keep the bread light. Ensuring your bananas are very ripe—with plenty of brown spots—will provide the most natural sweetness and moisture for your loaf.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a deeper, more molasses-like flavor, try replacing the granulated sugar with brown sugar. If you need a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. You can even create a loaded version by using a mix of both chocolate chips and walnuts for extra texture.
Serviervorschläge
This banana bread is best served warm. Enjoy a thick slice with a pat of butter that melts into the crumb, or add a light drizzle of honey for extra decadence. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk.
Pin it With its simple preparation and delicious result, this banana bread is sure to become a staple in your baking rotation. Enjoy every moist, flavorful bite of your homemade creation!
Recipe FAQs
- → Why is my banana bread dense and heavy?
Overmixing the batter is the most common cause. Mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gently until just combined. Overworked batter develops too much gluten, resulting in a dense crumb. Stop mixing as soon as you don't see dry flour streaks.
- → Can I use frozen bananas instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen bananas work well. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing. Frozen bananas are often sweeter and softer than fresh ones, so you may need slightly less sugar in your batter.
- → How do I know when the banana bread is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it. If wet batter comes out, bake for another 5 minutes and test again. The top should be golden brown.
- → Can I make this dairy-free or vegan?
Yes, you can substitute butter with coconut oil or plant-based butter in equal amounts. For a vegan version, replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use vegan chocolate chips or nuts.
- → How should I store banana bread?
Keep cooled loaves wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- → What's the difference between using brown sugar versus white sugar?
Brown sugar contains molasses, which adds moisture and a deeper, more caramel-like flavor to your loaf. White sugar produces a lighter crumb and subtler sweetness. Either works, but brown sugar yields a richer taste and potentially softer texture.