My Mom’s Banana Bread Recipe The Best Banana Bread

My mom’s banana bread recipe always makes me think of quiet Sunday afternoons when the whole house smelled like sweet bananas and warm spices I remember watching her carefully mash the bananas and sprinkle nuts on top while I sat on the counter waiting for the first warm slice as soon as it came out of the oven she’d cut me a thick piece and I’d eat it with melted butter dripping down the sides it felt like the most special treat in the world

Now I make this banana bread whenever I miss home or want to share a bit of that comfort with friends and family it’s so soft moist and packed with flavor that it never lasts more than a day in my house plus I love adding a few extra touches like banana slices or pecans on top to make it look just like mom’s each time I bake it I feel connected to those sweet memories and to her loving spirit in the kitchen

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• Ripe bananas – Bring natural sweetness and make the bread super moist.
• All-purpose flour – Creates structure and holds everything together.
• Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with that golden crust.
• Brown sugar – Gives a rich depth of flavor.
• Eggs – Bind the ingredients and make the bread soft.
• Unsalted butter – Adds richness and a buttery taste.
• Greek yogurt or sour cream – Makes the crumb extra tender and moist.
• Baking soda – Helps the loaf rise nicely.
• Salt – Balances and enhances all the flavors.
• Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and a comforting aroma.
• Cinnamon – Brings a gentle spicy note.
• Chopped pecans – Add crunch and nutty flavor (optional but my mom always used them).
• Banana slices and pecans (for topping) – Make it look extra special and delicious.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls – For mixing dry and wet ingredients separately.
• Whisk – Helps to create a smooth, lump-free mixture.
• Spatula – Perfect for folding without overmixing.
• Loaf or round cake pan – Shapes the bread beautifully.
• Cooling rack – Keeps the bottom from becoming soggy.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Ensure perfect results every time.

Instructions

Step 1

I start by preheating my oven to 350°F so it’s perfectly ready when the batter is done.

Step 2

I mash the ripe bananas in a large bowl until smooth since they make the bread sweet and moist.

Step 3

In another bowl, I whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon to make sure they’re fully combined.

Step 4

I beat the melted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until creamy then add the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract and Greek yogurt or sour cream.

Step 5

I gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture with a spatula being careful not to overmix so the loaf stays tender.

Step 6

I fold in the chopped pecans at this stage if I’m using them for that nutty crunch.

Step 7

I pour the batter into a greased loaf or round cake pan and top it with banana slices and extra pecans for that beautiful homemade look.

Step 8

I bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean then let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into it.

Tips

I sometimes sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top before baking to give it a slight crusty sweetness. You can also add chocolate chips for a fun twist or substitute walnuts if you prefer. If you want the banana flavor to be even stronger, use extra ripe bananas — the blacker, the better!

Ways to Serve

I love serving this banana bread warm with a generous smear of butter or cream cheese. It also makes a wonderful breakfast with a cup of hot coffee or tea. For dessert, try serving it with a drizzle of honey or a scoop of vanilla ice cream — so good!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze my mom’s banana bread recipe?

Yes! Just wrap slices tightly and store them in the freezer for up to three months.

Why does my mom’s banana bread recipe sink in the middle?

It can happen if it’s underbaked or if the batter was overmixed. Be sure to check it with a toothpick and mix gently.

Can I make muffins with my mom’s banana bread recipe?

Definitely! Just adjust the baking time to about 20–25 minutes.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try my mom’s banana bread recipe and enjoy it as much as we always have! It’s a beautiful, comforting treat that feels like a hug in every slice. I’d love to hear how yours turns out or what special touches you add — feel free to share!

Happy Cooking!

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