Simple Banana Bread Loaf (Print Version)

Moist banana loaf with tender crumb and rich flavor, perfect for sharing with coffee or tea.

# What You'll Need:

→ Produce

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

→ Dairy

02 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
03 - 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

→ Pantry

04 - 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
05 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
07 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Eggs

09 - 2 large eggs, room temperature

→ Optional Add-ins

10 - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
11 - 1/2 cup chocolate chips

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar until smooth.
03 - Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in mashed bananas, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
05 - Fold dry ingredients gently into wet mixture until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
06 - Fold in nuts or chocolate chips if desired.
07 - Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top evenly.
08 - Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean or with a few moist crumbs.
09 - Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Moist texture with tender crumb
  • Rich banana flavor
02 -
  • For extra banana flavor, use very ripe bananas with lots of brown spots
  • Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a handful of dried fruit for variation
03 -
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep the bread tender
  • Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and moisture
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