Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2️⃣ Mash the Bananas:
In a large bowl, mash the overripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth with a few small lumps. The more ripe the bananas, the better the flavor!
3️⃣ Combine Wet Ingredients:
Add the eggs, vegetable oil (or melted butter), brown sugar, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Stir everything together with a spoon or whisk until fully combined. Make sure the mixture is smooth and the sugar is dissolved.
4️⃣ Add Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, mix together 1½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can result in dense bread.
5️⃣ Pour and Bake:
Pour the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to even it out. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The bread should be golden brown on top and slightly cracked.
6️⃣ Cool the Bread:
Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the bread set and prevents it from becoming soggy.
7️⃣ Slice and Serve:
Once cooled, slice the banana bread into thick slices and serve. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert!
Pro Tips for Perfect Banana Bread:
- Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the more flavor and sweetness they add. Look for bananas that are brown and speckled for the best results.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Stir the ingredients just until combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
- Room Temperature Eggs: If you’re using eggs straight from the fridge, warm them in a bowl of warm water for 5 minutes to bring them to room temperature, which helps the batter come together smoothly.
Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread:
- Incredibly Moist: The vegetable oil or melted butter and brown sugar ensure this banana bread stays moist and delicious for days.
- Simple to Make: No mixer required! You can easily make this banana bread by hand with just a whisk and a spoon.
- Naturally Sweet: The overripe bananas and brown sugar add the perfect level of sweetness without being overwhelming.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 3g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
FAQ About Banana Bread:
Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes! You can substitute vegetable oil with melted butter or coconut oil for a different flavor. Each will slightly change the taste, but the texture will remain moist.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips to the batter before baking for an extra crunch or sweetness.
Can I make this banana bread ahead of time?
Yes! This banana bread actually tastes better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Common Problems and Fixes:
Banana Bread Too Dense?
If your banana bread turns out dense, it might have been overmixed or you could have added too much flour. Be sure to measure your flour accurately and mix the batter gently.
Banana Bread Not Rising?
If your banana bread doesn’t rise as expected, make sure your baking powder is fresh, and that you didn’t overmix the batter. The batter should only be stirred until just combined.
Flavor Variations You Can Try:
- Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a rich, decadent twist.
- Nutty Banana Bread: Mix in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Spiced Banana Bread: Add ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
Why This Banana Bread is Perfect for Any Occasion:
Banana bread is the ultimate comfort food, and this recipe makes it incredibly easy to whip up. Whether you’re baking for a family breakfast, a snack, or for a gift, this banana bread is sure to impress.
Success with Banana Bread:
This Soft and Moist Banana Bread is the perfect way to use those overripe bananas and create a delicious homemade treat. It’s easy to make, wonderfully moist, and full of flavor, making it the perfect snack for any time of day.
For more bread recipes, check out Zucchini Bread or Pumpkin Bread.
Loved this Banana Bread? Share the recipe with your friends on social media and leave a comment below to let us know how it turned out!
