Moist Banana Bread

This classic Banana Bread is soft, moist, and packed with sweet, tender flavors. It’s a simple and satisfying breakfast or snack that’s bound to become a family favorite. With ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, this banana bread recipe is quick to make and irresistibly delicious. The banana flavor is rich and the texture is perfect – not too dense, not too light. If you’re craving something sweet and comforting, this is the recipe to try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Moist Banana Bread recipe is easy to follow and yields a soft, flavorful loaf every time. It’s made with simple ingredients like ripe bananas, butter, and sugar, creating a loaf that’s perfectly sweet without being overwhelming. Whether you’re using up overripe bananas or just in the mood for a warm, comforting treat, this banana bread is ideal. The cinnamon adds a cozy depth to the flavor, and the texture is moist and tender from the combination of vegetable oil and butter. It’s the kind of recipe that always impresses and disappears quickly, making it perfect for family gatherings, breakfast, or an afternoon snack.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 ¼ cup mashed banana (about 3 medium bananas)

• ½ cup (118ml) vegetable oil

• 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

• 2 large eggs

• 2 tablespoons (30ml) milk

• 1 teaspoon (5ml) pure vanilla extract

• 1 cup (190g) granulated sugar

• 1 ½ cup (210g) all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch loaf pan generously, and if you prefer, line it with parchment paper.

2. Peel and mash the bananas using a potato masher or fork until they’re smooth.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, vegetable oil, melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Beat everything together until well combined.

4. Add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until fully incorporated.

5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.

6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Use a spatula to finish incorporating any flour left at the edges.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake at 350°F for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely for at least 1 hour before slicing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10 slices

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 60 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

1. Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a rich twist on the classic.

2. Nutty Banana Bread: Stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.

3. Whole Wheat Banana Bread: Substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.

4. Coconut Banana Bread: Add ½ cup of shredded coconut for a tropical flair.

5. Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour to make this banana bread gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

To store leftover banana bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

If you’d like to freeze the banana bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours, or warm individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

How ripe should the bananas be for banana bread?

The bananas should be very ripe, with lots of brown spots on the peel. Overripe bananas are actually the best for banana bread because they are sweeter and easier to mash.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, margarine can be used instead of butter. However, butter gives the bread a richer flavor, so you may want to consider sticking with it for the best results.

Can I use less sugar?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet loaf, but keep in mind that the sugar contributes to the moist texture of the bread.

Can I add other fruits to the banana bread?

While bananas are the star of this bread, you can experiment by adding fruits like blueberries or diced strawberries for an extra fruity twist.

How can I make the banana bread fluffier?

For a fluffier texture, you can sift the dry ingredients before adding them to the wet ingredients, which will incorporate air into the flour and result in a lighter bread.

Can I make this banana bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the banana bread ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. It will keep well for a few days, or you can freeze it for longer storage.

Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar, which will give the bread a slightly richer flavor. You can use an equal amount.

What if I don’t have vegetable oil?

You can substitute vegetable oil with canola oil, melted coconut oil, or even yogurt in some cases, but vegetable oil is preferred for the best texture.

How can I tell when my banana bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick or skewer into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s done. If it’s wet, bake for a few more minutes and test again.

How long can I store banana bread in the freezer?

Banana bread can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.

Conclusion

This moist banana bread recipe is a go-to for anyone looking for a comforting, easy-to-make treat. It’s the perfect way to use up ripe bananas and enjoy a delicious breakfast or snack. With a tender crumb, delightful sweetness, and subtle hint of cinnamon, this banana bread is a sure hit with family and friends. Try it out, and you’ll see why it’s so loved!