Print

Foolproof Moist Classic Banana Bread Recipe

A close-up of a freshly baked, moist banana bread loaf studded with chocolate chips, resting on a white plate.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This easy, one-bowl banana bread recipe guarantees an incredibly moist texture using overripe bananas. It is simple enough for beginners and makes a perfect breakfast loaf or sweet snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large very ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a standard 9×5 inch loaf pan.
  2. In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until mostly smooth.
  3. Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas until combined.
  4. Mix in the granulated sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  5. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix only until just combined; do not overmix.
  7. If using, gently fold in the chocolate chips.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
  9. Bake for 50 to 65 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  10. Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Use bananas that are heavily spotted or almost black for the best flavor and moisture.
  • For an extra moist banana bread, substitute 1/4 cup of the flour with 1/4 cup of plain Greek yogurt.
  • If you prefer a crispier top, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of coarse sugar over the batter before baking.
  • This bread freezes well. Wrap cooled slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.

Nutrition