Homemade Banana Bread Recipe

There’s something magical about the smell of homemade banana bread wafting through your kitchen. It’s a comforting aroma that reminds us of cozy mornings and sweet indulgences. This Homemade Banana Bread Recipe is not only incredibly simple but also packed with flavor and the perfect amount of sweetness. Whether you’re looking to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter or just want a delightful treat to enjoy with your morning coffee, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Top Reasons to Make Homemade Banana Bread Recipe

1. Easy and Quick: This recipe requires minimal effort and can be prepared in just a few minutes.
2. Deliciously Moist: The combination of melted butter and bananas creates a moist and tender loaf that melts in your mouth.
3. Versatile: Add in your favorite nuts or chocolate chips to customize the flavor to your liking.
4. Perfect for Sharing: Slice it up and share with friends, family, or neighbors—everyone loves a homemade treat!
5. Freezes Well: Make an extra loaf and freeze it for later. It’s the perfect snack for unexpected guests.

What’s in the Bowl

To whip up this delightful banana bread, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 sticks of melted unsalted butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 4 eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 8 mashed bananas
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• Pinch of sea salt
• 1 cup roughly chopped walnuts

Before You Start: Equipment

Before you dive into the baking process, make sure you have these essential tools on hand:

• Mixing bowls – for combining all your ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – accuracy is key when baking!
• Whisk – to ensure a smooth batter.
• Rubber spatula – for mixing and scraping down the sides of the bowl.
• Loaf pans – standard 9×5-inch pans work best.
• Oven – preheat it to 350°F (175°C) before starting.

Homemade Banana Bread Recipe — Do This Next

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your banana bread bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until well combined. Then, add in the eggs, vanilla extract, vegetable oil, and whole milk. Mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add the Bananas

Next, fold in the mashed bananas. Make sure they are well integrated into the wet mixture, creating a lovely banana base for your bread.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and sea salt. Stir until well mixed.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, folding gently to combine. Be careful not to over-mix; you want a few lumps for a tender loaf.

Step 6: Add Walnuts

Once the batter is just combined, fold in the roughly chopped walnuts. This will give your banana bread a delightful crunch.

Step 7: Pour into Loaf Pans

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared loaf pans, smoothing the top with a spatula for even baking.

Step 8: Bake

Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes before transferring the loaves to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy your homemade banana bread warm or at room temperature!

Ingredient Flex Options

Feel free to customize this Homemade Banana Bread Recipe with these variations:

• Add 1 cup of chocolate chips for a sweeter treat.
• Replace walnuts with pecans or omit nuts for a nut-free version.
• Use whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
• Incorporate spices like nutmeg or ginger for added warmth.
• Substitute half the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.

Insider Tips

Here are some tips to take your banana bread to the next level:

• Make sure your bananas are very ripe. The more brown spots, the sweeter your bread will be!
• For an extra boost of flavor, try toasting the walnuts before adding them to the batter.
• Don’t skip the cooling time! This helps the bread set and makes it easier to slice.
• If you prefer a sweeter loaf, feel free to increase the sugar by 1/4 cup.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To keep your homemade banana bread fresh longer, consider these storage tips:

• Wrap the cooled banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the bread after cooling. Wrap it well and it can last for up to 3 months!
• To thaw, leave at room temperature for a few hours or microwave a slice for a few seconds.

Ask & Learn

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them and drain off any excess liquid before mashing and adding them to the batter.

What can I do if my banana bread is too dense?

If your bread turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. Make sure to mix just until combined for a lighter loaf.

Can I make mini loaves with this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just adjust the baking time to about 30-35 minutes for mini loaves.

How do I know when the banana bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your banana bread is ready to come out of the oven.

Reader Favorites

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Next Steps

Now that you have mastered this Homemade Banana Bread Recipe, consider exploring other delightful recipes. You can try your hand at making Caramel Banana Cake Roll or some Classic Blueberry Muffins to continue your baking adventures.

There’s no end to the deliciousness that awaits you in your kitchen! Enjoy every slice of your homemade banana bread, and don’t forget to share the joy with those you love. Happy baking!