Introduction

Few things smell better than a fresh loaf of banana bread baking in the oven. It’s soft, sweet, and slightly buttery — a perfect way to use up ripe bananas. Whether you’re new to baking or a weekend kitchen pro, this easy banana bread recipe will make your home smell like heaven.

In this post, you’ll learn how to make banana bread step by step with pictures, from mashing bananas to slicing the final loaf. Let’s get baking!

🥣 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything required to make the most delicious banana bread. Nothing fancy — just pantry basics and ripe bananas.

Ingredients:

3 medium ripe bananas (the riper, the better!)
½ cup melted butter
¾ cup brown sugar (or white sugar)
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips

🍌 Step 1: Mash the Bananas

Start by peeling your ripe bananas and placing them in a large mixing bowl. Use a fork to mash them until smooth but slightly chunky.

💡 Pro Tip: The darker the banana, the sweeter the bread!

🧈 Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

To the mashed bananas, add melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy.

This mixture gives your banana bread that moist, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

🍚 Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing dry ingredients separately helps the baking soda distribute evenly, preventing clumps.

🍯 Step 4: Fold Everything Together

Now, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently fold using a spatula — don’t overmix! A few small lumps are totally fine.

If you like extra texture, this is the time to stir in nuts or chocolate chips.

🍞 Step 5: Pour into a Loaf Pan

Grease your loaf pan with butter or line it with parchment paper. Pour in the batter and smooth the top.

Optional: Add a few banana slices or a sprinkle of brown sugar on top for a café-style look.

🔥 Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaf for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Your kitchen will smell amazing while it bakes — warm, buttery, and sweet.

🧊 Step 7: Cool & Slice

Once done, remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Cooling helps the bread set, making it easier to slice without crumbling.

☕ Step 8: Serve & Enjoy

Enjoy your banana bread with tea, coffee, or even a drizzle of honey. It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a quick snack.

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or 5 days in the fridge.

🧑‍🍳 Tips for Perfect Banana Bread Every Time

✅ Use overripe bananas: Brown, spotty bananas are ideal — they make your bread naturally sweet.
✅ Don’t overmix: Gentle folding keeps your loaf fluffy.
✅ Line the pan: It helps remove the loaf easily after baking.
✅ Add-ins: Try cinnamon, walnuts, or dark chocolate chips for extra flavor.
✅ Check doneness: Insert a toothpick — it should come out clean with a few moist crumbs.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make banana bread without eggs?
Yes! Replace eggs with ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce or 1 tablespoon flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water.

Q: Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely. Just thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

Q: How long does banana bread last?
It stays fresh for 3 days at room temperature or 5–6 days in the fridge.

Q: Can I freeze banana bread?
Yes! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No mixer required — super simple steps
Soft, moist texture every time
Uses ripe bananas you’d otherwise throw away
Customizable with your favorite add-ins
Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or gifting

📍 More Delicious Recipes

If you loved this banana bread, check out more recipes on KewlRecipes.com — from pancakes to soups, we’ve got everything to make your kitchen fun again!