Simply Recipes Banana Bread The Best Banana Bread

Simply Recipes banana bread recipe brings me right back to the first time I baked banana bread on my own during a quiet rainy afternoon I was craving something warm and sweet but simple enough that I could make it with what I had at home I grabbed my overripe bananas and started mashing them listening to the sound of rain against the window and by the time the loaf was in the oven the house smelled like pure comfort and I felt so proud slicing into that golden loaf later and enjoying it with a hot cup of tea felt like the perfect cozy moment

Since then this banana bread has been my go-to whenever I want to share a little joy with friends or neighbors it’s soft moist and perfectly sweet with a subtle hint of cinnamon and vanilla plus I love topping it with banana slices and a drizzle of honey to make it extra pretty each slice feels like a little celebration of home baking and it always disappears faster than I expect whether served as breakfast dessert or a comforting afternoon treat

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• Ripe bananas – Give natural sweetness and create a moist texture.
• All-purpose flour – Forms the structure of the loaf.
• Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
• Brown sugar – Brings a rich, caramel-like flavor.
• Eggs – Help bind the ingredients and add moisture.
• Unsalted butter – Makes the bread soft and buttery.
• Greek yogurt or sour cream – Keeps the loaf extra moist and fluffy.
• Baking soda – Helps the bread rise perfectly.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• Vanilla extract – Adds a warm, sweet aroma.
• Cinnamon – Gives a cozy spice note.
• Banana slices (for topping) – Make the loaf look beautiful and add extra banana flavor.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls – To mix wet and dry ingredients separately and easily.
• Whisk – Helps blend everything smoothly without lumps.
• Spatula – For gently folding ingredients together.
• Loaf pan – Creates the perfect shape and even baking.
• Cooling rack – Helps the loaf cool evenly without becoming soggy.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Keep measurements accurate for the best texture.

Instructions

Step 1

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

Step 2

I mash the ripe bananas in a large bowl until smooth because they’re the star that makes the bread moist and naturally sweet.

Step 3

In another bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon to make sure all the dry ingredients are well combined.

Step 4

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

Step 5

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

Step 6

I pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and top it with banana slices for that extra pretty finish.

Step 7

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

Tips

I sometimes drizzle honey or maple syrup on top before serving for an extra touch of sweetness. You can also add chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the batter for a fun twist. If you have extra slices, wrap them well — they stay moist for several days and taste even better the next day!

Ways to Serve

I love serving this banana bread warm with a pat of butter or a spread of cream cheese. It’s also amazing as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a cozy breakfast, pair it with your favorite coffee or tea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this Simply Recipes banana bread recipe?

Yes! Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to three months.

Why did my Simply Recipes banana bread recipe turn out dense?

It could be from overmixing the batter. Make sure to fold gently and just until combined.

Can I make muffins with the Simply Recipes banana bread recipe?

Absolutely! Just bake them for about 20–25 minutes instead of 60 minutes.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this Simply Recipes banana bread recipe a try! It’s one of my favorite ways to turn ripe bananas into something special and comforting. Let me know what fun toppings or mix-ins you add — I’d love to hear about your delicious creations!

Happy Cooking!

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