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Easy & Quick Banana Bread Recipe – Moist, Delicious, and Made in One Bowl

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm slice of banana bread — moist, sweet, and rich with the natural flavor of overripe bananas. This Easy & Quick Banana Bread Recipe is your go-to when you need a no-fuss, one-bowl bake that’s reliable, moist, and loaded with flavor. Whether you're clearing out those spotty bananas or just want a cozy treat with coffee, this banana bread comes together in minutes using pantry staples. No fancy equipment, no complicated steps — just stir, pour, and bake. The result? A golden loaf with a tender crumb and irresistible banana aroma. Looking for more banana-inspired bakes? Don’t miss these creative banana bread variations by King Arthur Baking to spark even more ideas!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 10 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🍌 Fruits & Fresh Produce
  • 3 medium ripe bananas mashed
🥚 Refrigerated
  • 1 large egg
🥄 Dry & Pantry Items
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt
🍦 Flavor Enhancers
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
🧈 Dairy
  • 1/3 cup melted butter cooled slightly
  • you can use salted or unsalted

Equipment

  • 9x5-inch loaf pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk or fork
  • Spatula or spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooling rack
  • Toothpick (for testing doneness)

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Lightly grease or line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
  1. In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth with a fork.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
  1. Add the melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas.
  2. Whisk until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients
  1. Sprinkle flour, baking soda, sugar, and salt over the banana mixture.
  2. Stir gently with a spatula just until no dry streaks remain. Do not overmix!
Step 5: Pour into Pan
  1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
  2. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake
  1. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  2. If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely tent with foil around the 40-minute mark.
Step 7: Cool & Slice
  1. Cool the loaf in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  2. Slice and serve!
🍯 Pro Tip: Serve with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for next-level comfort.

    Notes

    🧊 Storage & Reheating
    Room Temperature
    Wrap the cooled banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
    Store on the counter for up to 3 days.
    Refrigerator
    Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
    Let come to room temperature or microwave slices briefly before serving.
    Freezer
    Freeze whole or in slices, wrapped tightly and placed in freezer bags.
    Best used within 3 months. Thaw at room temp or reheat gently in the oven.
    🥄 Variations
    Once you master the base, the banana bread possibilities are endless! Here are some ideas:
    🍫 Chocolate Chip Banana Bread – Add 1/2 cup chocolate chips for gooey bites throughout.
    🥜 Peanut Butter Banana Bread – Swirl in 1/4 cup peanut butter for rich flavor.
    🫐 Banana Blueberry Bread – Fold in 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries.
    🌰 Nutty Banana Bread – Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
    🍯 Honey Banana Bread – Swap sugar with 1/3 cup honey for a natural sweetener.
    🌿 Vegan Version – Replace egg with a flax egg and butter with melted coconut oil.
    Looking for gluten-free options? This banana bread roundup from Minimalist Baker includes GF and vegan-friendly alternatives.
    ❓ 10 FAQs
    1. How ripe should my bananas be?
    The riper, the better — blackened bananas are perfect. They provide more natural sweetness and moisture.
    2. Can I use frozen bananas?
    Yes! Thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before using.
    3. Can I reduce the sugar?
    Absolutely. Use 1/3 cup for a less sweet loaf — the bananas already add natural sweetness.
    4. Can I use whole wheat flour?
    Yes, but it will be slightly denser. Try a 50/50 blend of white and whole wheat for balance.
    5. Do I need to use a mixer?
    Nope! This is a true one-bowl recipe. A fork and spatula are all you need.
    6. Can I make muffins instead?
    Yes! Bake in a lined muffin tin at 350°F for 18–22 minutes.
    7. Can I double the recipe?
    Yes, just use two loaf pans and rotate them halfway through baking.
    8. Why did my banana bread sink in the middle?
    This could be due to underbaking or too much mixing. Always test with a toothpick.
    9. Can I add spices?
    Definitely! Cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom add warmth and depth.
    10. Is this banana bread freezer-friendly?
    Very! Slice it before freezing for easy grab-and-go pieces.
    🏁 Conclusion
    This Easy & Quick Banana Bread proves that simple ingredients and one bowl can yield incredibly moist, flavorful, and satisfying results. Whether you’re using up ripe bananas or baking for a cozy afternoon, this recipe is the perfect blend of ease and indulgence.
    It’s customizable, beginner-friendly, and guaranteed to disappear quickly from your counter. Try it once, and you’ll have it memorized for life. 🍌