Delicious Banana Banana Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for the perfect way to use up overripe bananas, look no further than this banana banana bread recipe. It’s a classic family favorite that never goes out of style, and it’s incredibly easy to whip up even for beginner bakers. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert, banana banana bread is versatile, comforting, and simply irresistible.

There’s something so nostalgic about banana bread. I remember my grandmother making it every time we had overripe bananas sitting on the counter, their skins covered in brown spots, signaling they were just right for baking. The aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through the kitchen always brought a sense of warmth and comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This banana banana bread recipe is packed with flavor. Using extra ripe bananas gives the bread a natural sweetness, while the addition of another banana ensures that every bite is bursting with banana goodness. The recipe is also foolproof—requiring just a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Rich banana flavor: With two bananas in the mix, this recipe guarantees a rich, banana-infused flavor in every bite.
• Moist texture: The combination of bananas and a touch of butter ensures the bread stays moist for days.
• Quick and easy: It takes just 15 minutes to prepare the batter, and then the oven does the rest of the work.
• Perfect for using up overripe bananas: Instead of throwing away those spotty bananas, turn them into a delicious homemade treat.
• Customizable: Want to add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a cinnamon swirl? This recipe is flexible enough to handle it all.

Ingredients for Banana Banana Bread

Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic banana banana bread recipe:

• 2 large overripe bananas, mashed
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Optional add-ins:

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips for a sweeter version

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

In a large mixing bowl, mash the two overripe bananas with a fork until they’re smooth. The riper the bananas, the better—they will add more sweetness and flavor to the bread.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

To the mashed bananas, add the melted butter and stir until well combined. Next, mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is fully incorporated.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the banana mixture, then stir to combine. Slowly add the flour, folding it into the wet ingredients until no flour streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix; you want the batter to remain light and airy.

Step 5: Add Optional Ingredients

If you’re adding walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips, gently fold them into the batter at this stage. These optional ingredients add texture and richness to the bread but are entirely up to your preference.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. If you’d like, you can slice an extra banana lengthwise and place it on top of the batter for decoration. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This ensures that the bread holds its shape and doesn’t crumble when cut.

Cooking Time and Servings

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 60-65 minutes
• Total Time: 75-80 minutes
• Serving Size: Makes 1 loaf (8-10 slices)

Serving Suggestions

This banana banana bread is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving ideas to make it even more enjoyable:

• With butter: Spread a little butter on a warm slice for a rich and indulgent treat.
• With cream cheese: For an extra tangy twist, pair a slice with cream cheese.
• As a dessert: Serve banana bread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent dessert.
• For breakfast: Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a satisfying start to your day.

Storage and Reheating

To store, wrap the banana banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 week. You can also freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slices in the microwave or toaster oven for a warm, fresh-tasting treat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why Are My Bananas Spotty?

Bananas develop brown spots as they ripen, and while they may look past their prime, those brown spots are a good thing for banana bread! The riper the banana, the sweeter it becomes, making it perfect for this recipe.

Can I Use Frozen Bananas?

Yes! If you have overripe bananas that you’ve frozen, you can thaw them and use them in this recipe. They may be a little watery after thawing, but that won’t affect the taste or texture of the bread.

How Do I Keep My Banana Bread Moist?

To keep your banana bread moist, be sure not to overmix the batter, as this can make the bread dense. Also, be careful not to overbake it—check for doneness at the 60-minute mark and remove it from the oven when a toothpick comes out clean. Storing it wrapped tightly will also help retain moisture.

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make a gluten-free version of this banana banana bread. Be sure to use a blend designed for baking to achieve the best texture.

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked banana bread, especially when it’s packed with extra banana flavor. This easy banana banana bread recipe is perfect for using up ripe bananas and is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you enjoy it plain, with butter, or with extra toppings, this bread is always a hit. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your results in the comments below!