Description
Moist, tender, and packed with rich banana flavor, this old-fashioned banana bread is a nostalgic treat. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this easy-to-make recipe brings the comforting charm of homemade baking to your kitchen.
Ingredients
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 medium bananas)
1/4 cup whole milk
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Cream butter and sugar together in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add mashed bananas and milk, mixing until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Fold the dry mixture into the banana mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- If using, fold in chopped nuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
Use overripe bananas with brown or black skins for the best flavor.
Optional add-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit can be mixed into the batter for variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Bread, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 slices
- Calories: 230 kcal
