Simply recipes banana bread is a timeless classic that’s loved by many. It’s simple to make, requires basic ingredients, and is a perfect way to use up ripe bananas. Whether you enjoy it warm with butter or as a quick snack, banana bread never disappoints. This simple banana bread recipe will guide you step-by-step on how to make the banana bread that’s moist, flavorful, and utterly delicious.

Even if you have just two bananas, you can still make a great loaf with this recipe. Keep reading for helpful tips, variations, and answers to common banana bread questions.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This banana bread recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers, combining simplicity with consistently delicious results. Its adaptability ensures you can make the most of overripe bananas without waste. For another classic dessert that brings comfort to any table, explore our German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake Guide—a decadent treat that pairs beautifully with this banana bread for a cozy afternoon tea.

Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your kitchen.
Quick to Make: It takes just minutes to prepare before popping it into the oven.
Versatile: Whether you have three bananas or banana bread with two bananas is all you can make, this recipe adapts beautifully.
Delicious Results: The loaf turns out moist, fluffy, and bursting with banana flavor every time.

Plus, it’s a great way to prevent overripe bananas from going to waste!

Ingredients for banana bread, including overripe bananas, flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and baking soda, arranged neatly on a countertop. — “Simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.”

Simply Recipe Banana Bread

A freshly baked loaf of banana bread sliced to reveal its moist, fluffy interior.

Print Recipe

This classic banana bread is moist, delicious, and easy to make. It’s packed with ripe bananas and a hint of vanilla, perfect for breakfast or as a snack. This recipe can also be customized with nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 8 Serves 1x
Category: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

3 ripe bananas (mashed)
1/3 cup melted butter
3/4 cup sugar (or adjust to taste)
1 egg (beaten)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch salt
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

Prepare the Batter:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 4×8-inch loaf pan.
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Stir in the melted butter.
Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture and stir to combine.
Add the flour to the mixture and mix until just incorporated.

Bake the Bread:

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 60 minutes or until a tester inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

You can add chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for additional flavor.
This banana bread keeps well for several days at room temperature or can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 200

Keywords: Baking, Banana Bread, Comfort Food, Easy Recipes, Quick Bread

Tips for the Best Simply Recipes Banana Bread

Use Overripe Bananas: Bananas with brown spots are sweeter and more flavorful, perfect for this recipe.

A bowl of mashed overripe bananas with a fork next to it, ready to be mixed into the batter. — “Overripe bananas are the secret to moist, flavorful banana bread.”

Don’t Overmix: Stir just until the ingredients are combined to keep the bread fluffy.

A mixing bowl with banana bread batter being stirred with a wooden spoon. — “Mix gently to keep the batter light and fluffy.”

Check Early: Start checking for doneness at the 50-minute mark to avoid overbaking.

A loaf of banana bread baking in the oven, with the golden crust beginning to form. — “The aroma of baking banana bread is simply irresistible.”

Variations: Simply Recipes Banana Bread with Two Bananas

Don’t worry if you only have two bananas; you can still make a delicious loaf! Here’s how to adjust the recipe:

Adjustments

Reduce Sugar: Use 1/2 cup of sugar instead of 3/4 cup. Fewer bananas mean less natural sweetness, so balance it by lowering added sugar.
Add Moisture: To make up for the lost moisture, add 2 tablespoons of milk or yogurt. This keeps the bread soft and tender.
Enhance Flavor: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a flavor boost. A splash of maple syrup or honey can also add sweetness.

This variation works beautifully and ensures you don’t have to wait for that third banana to ripen!

Serving Ideas for Simply Recipes Banana Bread

Banana bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some simple serving ideas to make your loaf even more enjoyable:

1. Classic with Butter

A slice of warm banana bread with butter melting on top, served on a small plate. — “Enjoy a classic slice with a generous layer of butter.”

One of the simplest and most satisfying ways to enjoy a slice of banana bread is with butter. Lightly toast the banana bread to bring out its natural sweetness and add a slightly crisp texture. Spread a generous layer of butter on the warm slice, letting it melt into the moist crumb for a rich and creamy bite. This combination is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or as a quick treat when you’re craving something comforting. To make it extra special, use flavored butter like cinnamon or honey butter. This method enhances the flavor of your simple banana bread recipe, turning it into a timeless favorite that’s both easy and delicious.

If you love banana-flavored treats but prefer something bite-sized, try our delightful Mini Banana Muffin Recipe. These moist, fluffy muffins are perfect for quick snacks, school lunches, or even a party platter. Pair them with this classic banana bread recipe to create a banana-themed dessert spread that’s guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re baking a loaf or a batch of muffins, you’ll enjoy the same irresistible banana flavor in every bite.

2. With Cream Cheese

Pairing banana bread with cream cheese is a match made in heaven. The tanginess of cream cheese perfectly balances the natural sweetness of the banna bread, creating a flavor combination that’s irresistible. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese on a slice of your freshly baked loaf, or try whipping the cream cheese with a touch of honey or vanilla extract for an added twist. This pairing works wonderfully as a breakfast option or a satisfying snack during the day. The rich and creamy texture of the cream cheese complements the moist crumb of your banana bread recipe, making every bite indulgent. Whether enjoyed with coffee or tea, this combination is sure to become a favorite.

A slice of banana bread with a thick layer of cream cheese spread on top, garnished with a drizzle of honey. — “Pair banana bread with cream cheese for a tangy, indulgent twist.”

3. As a Dessert

Transforming banana bread into a dessert is as simple as adding a few toppings. Warm up a slice and top it with whipped cream for a light, airy finish, or drizzle caramel sauce over the top for a more decadent treat. For those who love an extra indulgence, serve a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of chopped nuts. This method takes your simple banana bread recipe to a whole new level, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself. The dessert-style approach highlights the sweet and moist texture of the banna bread while adding creative touches to make it feel extra special.

Turn your banana bread into an irresistible dessert by adding creative toppings. Drizzle caramel sauce, or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and chopped nuts for an indulgent treat. Pair this dessert-style banana bread with our luxurious Chocolate Gravy Recipe Perfect for Biscuits and More to create a unique and memorable combination for your next dinner party.

4. Breakfast Boost

Turn your banana bread recipe into a wholesome breakfast by pairing it with healthy toppings. Add a dollop of Greek yogurt on top for a creamy texture, and sprinkle fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a burst of freshness. The tangy yogurt complements the sweetness of the banana bread, while the berries add a pop of color and extra nutrients. For added crunch, sprinkle some granola or nuts on top. If you’re looking for another way to enjoy bananas in a creative twist, try our Banana Bread Brownies for a decadent treat. This breakfast idea is perfect for busy mornings, giving you a balanced meal that’s quick to assemble. It’s an easy way to elevate your banana bread with two bananas into a satisfying and nutritious start to the day.

5. Make French Toast

Thick slices of banana bread turned into French toast, topped with syrup and fresh berries. — “Transform banana bread into decadent French toast for breakfast.”

Give day-old banana bread a second life by turning it into French toast. Slice the banna bread thickly, then dip each piece into a mixture of beaten eggs, milk, cinnamon, and a splash of vanilla extract. Cook the slices in a skillet with butter until golden and slightly crispy on the outside. The result is a decadent breakfast treat with a rich, custardy texture. Serve your French toast with syrup, fresh fruit, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added sweetness. This creative twist on your simple banana bread recipe combines the best of two comfort foods, making it a hit for weekend breakfasts or brunch gatherings.

How to Store Simply Recipes Banana Bread

Proper storage is key to keeping your banana bread fresh and flavorful, whether you’re enjoying it right away or saving it for later. Here are some tips to help:

At Room Temperature

If you plan to eat your banana bread recipe within a few days, store it at room temperature. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to lock in moisture. Place it in an airtight container to protect it from drying out. When stored this way, your simple banana bread recipe will stay fresh for about 2–3 days.

A loaf of banana bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, placed in an airtight container. — “Proper storage ensures your banana bread stays fresh and moist.”

In the Refrigerator

For longer storage, keep your banna bread in the fridge. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain its moisture and prevent it from absorbing odors. Refrigerated banana bread can last up to a week. Before serving, let it come to room temperature or lightly toast a slice to restore its softness.

In the Freezer

Banana bread freezes exceptionally well, making it perfect for meal prep or saving leftovers. To freeze, wrap individual slices or the entire loaf in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. Frozen banana bread with two bananas can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the bread at room temperature or reheat slices in a toaster for a quick treat.

Proper storage ensures that every bite of your banana bread recipe remains moist and delicious!

FAQs

Why Does Banana Bread Have to Sit Overnight?

Letting banana bread rest overnight allows the flavors to deepen and the texture to improve. As it cools, the banana flavor intensifies, and the crumb becomes softer and more cohesive. The resting period also allows any residual moisture to distribute evenly, making each slice moist and delicious. If you’re patient enough, try wrapping your cooled banana bread in plastic wrap and leaving it at room temperature overnight before slicing—it’s worth the wait!

Can You Put Too Much Banana in Banana Bread?

Yes, adding too much banana can make your bread overly dense and soggy. The batter may not bake evenly, leaving you with a gummy texture in the center. Stick to the recipe’s recommended number of bananas (usually 2–3), as this ensures the right balance of moisture and flavor. If you have extra bananas, consider freezing them for your next loaf or using them in smoothies.

Why Are Older Bananas Better for Banana Bread?

Older bananas are better because they’re sweeter and softer. As bananas ripen, their starches convert into sugars, enhancing the sweetness and flavor of the bread. The soft texture of overripe bananas also makes them easier to mash, creating a smoother batter. Look for bananas with brown spots or even fully brown skins—they’re perfect for this recipe.

Why Is My Banana Bread Not Fluffy?

If your banana bread is dense instead of fluffy, a few things might have gone wrong:

Overmixing: Stirring the batter too much develops gluten in the flour, resulting in a dense loaf.
Old Baking Soda: Ensure your baking soda is fresh, as it’s responsible for making the bread rise.
Too Much Moisture: Using too many bananas or adding extra liquids can make the bread heavy.
To fix this next time, mix gently, use fresh leavening agents, and stick to the recipe’s ingredient ratios.

Conclusion

Simply Recipes Banana Bread is more than just a way to use up ripe bananas—it’s a nostalgic and comforting treat that fits perfectly into any occasion. For a complete dessert experience, consider pairing this moist, flavorful banana bread with our Strawberry Cheesecake, a classic recipe that offers a perfect balance of creamy sweetness and fresh fruit flavors. Whether enjoyed together or on their own, these recipes are guaranteed to delight.

Even if you’re making banana bread with two bananas, this recipe adapts easily without sacrificing flavor or texture. The step-by-step guide ensures that you avoid common baking mistakes, like a dense crumb or unevenly cooked loaf. Ripe bananas are the key to success, as their natural sweetness and moisture elevate the flavor to the next level. Don’t forget the golden rule: allowing your banana bread to rest overnight enhances its taste and texture, making it even better the next day.

This recipe is more than just a way to bake—it’s an experience that brings joy to your kitchen. Pair it with butter, cream cheese, or your favorite toppings, and enjoy it with family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying it for the first time, this banana bread recipe is sure to become a cherished part of your home cooking repertoire. Bake a loaf today, and savor the smiles it brings!