Simple Banana Bread Loaf

Featured in: Baking & Pastries

This classic banana loaf combines ripe mashed bananas with a balanced mix of flour, sugar, and melted butter to create a moist and tender crumb. Enhanced by hints of vanilla and baking soda for subtle lift, it bakes to golden perfection in under an hour. Optional nuts or chocolate chips add texture and depth. Perfect for pairing with coffee or tea, this loaf offers a straightforward approach to homemade baked comfort.

Updated on Sat, 13 Dec 2025 11:38:00 GMT
A golden-brown Simple Banana Bread loaf, ready to slice and enjoy with a morning coffee. Save
A golden-brown Simple Banana Bread loaf, ready to slice and enjoy with a morning coffee. | stellarcrust.com

A moist, classic banana bread with a tender crumb and rich banana flavor perfect for everyday baking and enjoying with coffee or tea.

This simple banana bread loaf has become a staple in my kitchen for its ease and comforting taste.

Ingredients

  • 3 ripe bananas: mashed (about 1 1/4 cups)
  • 115 g unsalted butter: melted
  • 60 ml milk: dairy or plant-based
  • 200 g all-purpose flour: (1 2/3 cups)
  • 150 g granulated sugar: (3/4 cup)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract:
  • 1 tsp baking soda:
  • 1/2 tsp salt:
  • 2 large eggs: at room temperature
  • 80 g chopped walnuts or pecans: (optional)
  • 80 g chocolate chips: (optional)

Instructions

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Step 1:
Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line a 9x5-inch (23x13 cm) loaf pan with parchment paper.
Step 2:
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth.
Step 3:
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the mashed bananas, milk, and vanilla extract.
Step 4:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Step 5:
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 6:
Fold in nuts or chocolate chips, if using.
Step 7:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Step 8:
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Step 9:
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Product image
Keeps spices within easy reach while cooking, helping you season dishes quickly during everyday meal prep.
Check price on Amazon
Product image
Keeps spices within easy reach while cooking, helping you season dishes quickly during everyday meal prep.
Check price on Amazon
Save
| stellarcrust.com

This recipe has made many cozy mornings special in our family gathering around coffee and fresh banana bread.

Notes

Pairs well with coffee tea or a glass of milk.

Required Tools

9x5-inch loaf pan Mixing bowls Whisk Spatula Measuring cups and spoons Parchment paper Wire rack

Allergen Information

Contains eggs milk (if using dairy) wheat (gluten) tree nuts (if add-ins included) For dairy-free use plant-based milk and a dairy-free butter substitute Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens

Warm, freshly baked Simple Banana Bread, showing a moist interior with hints of banana flavor. Save
Warm, freshly baked Simple Banana Bread, showing a moist interior with hints of banana flavor. | stellarcrust.com
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This banana bread is the perfect simple treat to brighten your day and enjoy with your favorite beverage.

Recipe FAQs

What bananas are best for this loaf?

Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the richest flavor and optimal moisture in the loaf.

Can I substitute dairy products?

Yes, plant-based milk and dairy-free butter alternatives work well to maintain moistness and flavor.

How do nuts or chocolate chips affect texture?

Adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips provides a pleasant crunch and bursts of sweetness, enhancing overall texture.

What is the ideal baking temperature and time?

Bake at 175°C (350°F) for 50-60 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.

How can I tell when the loaf is done?

A clean toothpick or one with a few moist crumbs signals that the loaf is perfectly baked without dryness.

Any tips for variations?

Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or dried fruit for subtle flavor twists and enhanced aroma.

Simple Banana Bread Loaf

A moist banana loaf featuring a tender crumb and rich banana taste, great for daily treats.

Time to Prep
15 minutes
Time to Cook
55 minutes
Overall Time
70 minutes
Recipe by Logan Smith


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Makes 10 Portions

Diet Preferences Meatless

What You'll Need

Produce

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

Dairy

01 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
02 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

Pantry

01 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
02 3/4 cup granulated sugar
03 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
04 1 teaspoon baking soda
05 1/2 teaspoon salt

Eggs

01 2 large eggs, at room temperature

Optional Add-ins

01 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
02 1/2 cup chocolate chips

How to Make It

Step 01

Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.

Step 02

Combine butter and sugar: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth.

Step 03

Add eggs and banana mixture: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then incorporate the mashed bananas, milk, and vanilla extract.

Step 04

Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.

Step 05

Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined, avoiding overmixing.

Step 06

Incorporate optional add-ins: Fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips if desired.

Step 07

Transfer batter to pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the surface evenly.

Step 08

Bake the loaf: Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 09

Cool before slicing: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tools You Need

  • 9x5-inch loaf pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Parchment paper
  • Wire rack

Allergy Info

Always review each ingredient for allergens, and ask a healthcare provider if you’re unsure.
  • Contains eggs, milk (if dairy used), wheat (gluten), and tree nuts (if added).
  • Use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter substitute to make dairy-free.

Nutrition Info (per portion)

This nutrition information serves as a guideline. For health concerns, talk to a professional.
  • Energy: 210
  • Total Fat: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Proteins: 3 g