Simple Banana Bread Loaf

Featured in: Baking & Sweet Treats

This moist banana loaf features a tender crumb and deep banana flavor, created by using ripe bananas and balanced ingredients like melted butter, sugar, and vanilla. Gentle folding of the flour mixture preserves a soft texture, while optional nuts or chocolate chips add delightful variations. Baking until a skewer comes out clean ensures a perfect finish. Best served with coffee or tea, this loaf offers an easy, classic treat ideal for cozy moments.

Updated on Sat, 13 Dec 2025 15:37:00 GMT
A golden-brown Simple Banana Bread loaf, warm and inviting, ready to slice and enjoy. Pin it
A golden-brown Simple Banana Bread loaf, warm and inviting, ready to slice and enjoy. | vectorbaker.com

A moist, classic banana bread with a tender crumb and rich banana flavor—perfect for everyday baking and enjoying with coffee or tea.

This banana bread has become a favorite in my household for an easy yet delicious treat any time of day.

Ingredients

  • Produce: 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/4 cups)
  • Dairy: 115 g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted; 60 ml (1/4 cup) milk (dairy or plant-based)
  • Pantry: 200 g (1 2/3 cups) all-purpose flour; 150 g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt
  • Eggs: 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • Optional Add-ins: 80 g (1/2 cup) chopped walnuts or pecans; 80 g (1/2 cup) chocolate chips

Instructions

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Preheat Oven:
Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line a 9x5-inch (23x13 cm) loaf pan with parchment paper.
Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth.
Add Eggs and Flavor:
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the mashed bananas, milk, and vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Mix Ingredients:
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
Add Optional Ingredients:
Fold in nuts or chocolate chips, if using.
Prepare Pan:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake:
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Cool:
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
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| vectorbaker.com

Making this banana bread always reminds me of cozy mornings shared with family over warm slices and coffee.

Notes

Pairs well with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.

Required Tools

9x5-inch loaf pan, Mixing bowls, Whisk, Spatula, Measuring cups and spoons, Parchment paper, Wire rack

Allergen Information

Contains: eggs, milk (if using dairy), wheat (gluten), tree nuts (if add-ins included). For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and a dairy-free butter substitute. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.

Moist Simple Banana Bread, speckled with banana and golden crust, perfect for breakfast or dessert. Pin it
Moist Simple Banana Bread, speckled with banana and golden crust, perfect for breakfast or dessert. | vectorbaker.com
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This simple banana bread is a timeless recipe perfect for all occasions.

Recipe FAQs

What type of bananas work best?

Very ripe bananas with brown spots provide maximum flavor and moisture, enhancing the loaf's taste and texture.

Can nuts or chocolate chips be added?

Yes, folding in chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips adds texture and flavor variety without overpowering the loaf.

How do I know when the loaf is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs for perfect doneness.

Can I use plant-based milk instead of dairy?

Absolutely, plant-based milk works well to keep the loaf moist and suitable for dairy-free preferences.

What are some suggested variations?

Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or dried fruit to the batter for extra flavor twists and seasonal appeal.

Simple Banana Bread Loaf

Moist banana loaf with a tender crumb and rich flavor, perfect for a quick, satisfying snack.

Time to prep
15 minutes
Time to cook
55 minutes
Overall time
70 minutes
Created by Jack Sanchez


Skill level Easy

Cuisine type American

Makes 10 Portions

Dietary details Meat-free

What you need

Produce

01 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/4 cups)

Dairy

01 1/2 cup (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted
02 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

Pantry

01 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
02 3/4 cup granulated sugar
03 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
04 1 teaspoon baking soda
05 1/2 teaspoon salt

Eggs

01 2 large eggs, at room temperature

Optional Add-ins

01 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
02 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Directions

Step 01

Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.

Step 02

Combine Wet Ingredients: Whisk melted butter and sugar together until smooth in a large bowl.

Step 03

Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in mashed bananas, milk, and vanilla extract.

Step 04

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.

Step 05

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined, avoiding overmixing.

Step 06

Incorporate Optional Add-ins: Fold in nuts or chocolate chips if desired.

Step 07

Fill Loaf Pan: Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the surface evenly.

Step 08

Bake: Bake for 50 to 60 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 09

Cool: Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tools you'll need

  • 9x5-inch loaf pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Parchment paper
  • Wire rack

Allergy advice

Always check each ingredient for allergens and talk to a healthcare pro if you’re unsure.
  • Contains eggs, milk (if using dairy), wheat (gluten), and tree nuts (if added).
  • Use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter substitute for a dairy-free version.
  • Always verify ingredient labels for possible allergens.

Nutrition info (per portion)

These values are estimates for your reference. They’re not a substitute for professional medical advice.
  • Calorie count: 210
  • Fat content: 7 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 34 grams
  • Proteins: 3 grams