banana bread

This banana bread recipe is packed with flavor and so easy to make and it is a comforting bake that fits perfectly into everyday home baking.

If you love simple baked goods then you are going to enjoy banana bread because it uses basic ingredients and turns ripe bananas into something satisfying.

This banana bread is soft moist and reliable and it works well for breakfast snacks or casual sharing with family.

With a loaf like this you get a homemade result that feels familiar dependable and worth baking again.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe and each ingredient plays an important role in the final loaf.

• Ripe bananas: These provide natural sweetness moisture and the signature banana flavor.
• All purpose flour: This forms the structure of the bread and gives it a tender crumb.
• Eggs: These bind the ingredients together and add richness.
• Granulated sugar: This balances the banana flavor and helps with browning.
• Butter: This adds moisture flavor and a soft texture.
• Baking soda: This helps the bread rise properly in the oven.
• Salt: This enhances all the flavors in the loaf.
• Chocolate chips: These add pockets of sweetness and texture throughout the bread.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl: This is used to combine the banana mixture smoothly.
• Fork or potato masher: This helps mash the bananas evenly.
• Wooden spoon: This allows gentle mixing without overworking the batter.
• Loaf pan: This shapes the banana bread while baking.
• Parchment paper: This prevents sticking and makes removal easier.
• Cooling rack: This helps the loaf cool evenly after baking.
• Knife: This is used for slicing once the bread is cooled.

Instructions

Step 1 Prepare the bananas

I start by peeling ripe bananas and placing them into a large bowl. I mash them with a fork until mostly smooth with a few small lumps remaining because that gives the bread better texture.

Step 2 Mix the wet ingredients

I add melted butter and sugar to the bananas and stir until combined. I then mix in the eggs making sure everything is evenly blended before moving on.

Step 3 Add the dry ingredients

I sprinkle the flour baking soda and salt over the banana mixture and gently fold everything together. I mix just until no dry streaks remain because overmixing can make the bread dense.

Step 4 Fold in chocolate chips

I gently stir in the chocolate chips so they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. I try not to overwork the mixture at this stage.

Step 5 Bake the bread

I pour the batter into a lined loaf pan and smooth the top. I bake it in a preheated oven until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6 Cool and slice

I let the banana bread cool in the pan briefly before transferring it to a cooling rack. Once fully cooled I slice it for serving.

Tips

From my experience using very ripe bananas makes the biggest difference in flavor and moisture. I also recommend letting the bread cool completely before slicing so it holds together nicely. If you want a stronger banana taste you can add an extra half banana without changing the texture too much.

Ways to Serve

I like serving banana bread slightly warm with a cup of coffee or tea. It works well as a breakfast option snack or simple dessert. I also enjoy spreading a little butter on a slice for extra richness or serving it alongside fresh fruit for a balanced plate.

Storage Instructions

I store banana bread tightly wrapped at room temperature for a couple of days. For longer storage I keep it in the refrigerator which helps maintain freshness. It also freezes well when sliced and wrapped individually for easy grab and go portions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can banana bread be made ahead of time?

Yes banana bread actually tastes better the next day once the flavors settle.

How ripe should bananas be for banana bread?

I prefer bananas with brown spots because they are sweeter and mash easily.

Can I freeze banana bread?

Yes banana bread freezes very well when wrapped properly.

How long does banana bread last?

It stays fresh for about three days at room temperature and longer when refrigerated.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this banana bread a try and enjoy how simple and reliable it is to make. Save this recipe and feel free to adapt it to your taste with different mix ins.

Happy Cooking!

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