Moist Banana Bread with Ripe Bananas
Highlighted under: Oven Collection
This Moist Banana Bread with Ripe Bananas is the perfect blend of sweetness and moisture, making it a delightful treat for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.
Banana bread is a classic comfort food that brings nostalgia to many. This recipe uses ripe bananas, which not only enhances the flavor but also provides natural sweetness, allowing you to cut down on added sugars. It's perfect for using up those overripe bananas sitting on your countertop!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich banana flavor that shines through every bite
- Perfectly moist texture that's hard to resist
- Easy to make and perfect for using up ripe bananas
Perfect for Every Occasion
This Moist Banana Bread is not just a delicious treat; it's incredibly versatile too! Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast option, a satisfying afternoon snack, or a delightful dessert, this banana bread fits the bill. Its rich flavor and moist texture make it a favorite among family and friends, ensuring it will disappear quickly at any gathering.
You can enjoy it plain, or elevate it with spreads like butter, cream cheese, or nut butter. For an added twist, consider serving it with a scoop of ice cream or alongside a warm cup of coffee. This banana bread is perfect for brunches, potlucks, or simply as a comforting snack at home.
A Recipe for Ripe Bananas
Have some overripe bananas sitting on your counter? This recipe is a fantastic way to utilize those bananas before they go to waste. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas enhances the flavor of the bread, making it incredibly delicious. Plus, using ripe bananas ensures that your banana bread will be perfectly moist and tender.
Don’t fret if you have bananas that are starting to turn brown; they are perfect for this recipe! The more spots they have, the sweeter they will be, adding to the overall taste of your banana bread. This recipe is a great reminder that sometimes the best ingredients come from what we might consider 'past their prime.'
Tips for Success
To ensure your banana bread turns out perfectly every time, make sure not to overmix the batter. Once you combine the flour with the other ingredients, mix until just incorporated. Overmixing can lead to denser bread, so a gentle hand is key to achieving that light, moist texture you desire.
Additionally, feel free to customize your banana bread by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits for a personal touch. Walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch, while chocolate chips provide a sweet surprise in every bite. Whatever you choose to add, just remember to fold them in gently to keep the batter light.
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Make sure to use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.
Mix Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter. Then mix in baking soda and salt. Add sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Finally, mix in the flour until just incorporated.
Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your delicious banana bread with a cup of coffee or tea!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter.
Storing Your Banana Bread
To keep your banana bread fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can last for several days, making it a great option for meal prep or quick snacks throughout the week. If you want to prolong its shelf life, consider freezing it.
To freeze banana bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm treat.
Serving Suggestions
Banana bread can be enjoyed on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with various toppings. For a classic approach, spread a thin layer of butter or cream cheese on a warm slice. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.
For a breakfast twist, serve slices of banana bread alongside yogurt and fresh fruit. This combination not only enhances the flavor but also adds nutritional value to your meal, making it a balanced start to your day.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
→ How should I store the banana bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze the banana bread?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Consider adding nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon for extra flavor!
Moist Banana Bread with Ripe Bananas
This Moist Banana Bread with Ripe Bananas is the perfect blend of sweetness and moisture, making it a delightful treat for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.
Created by: Zinnia Fairweather
Recipe Type: Oven Collection
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Banana Bread
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the melted butter. Then mix in baking soda and salt. Add sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Finally, mix in the flour until just incorporated.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 125mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 2g