Looking for the perfect banana bread recipe? This ultimate version delivers a beautifully moist, tender loaf with intense banana flavor and just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying banana bread for the first time, this foolproof recipe will give you incredible results every time.

Made with simple ingredients and overripe bananas, this bread is perfect for breakfast, snacking, or even dessert. The recipe comes together quickly and fills your home with an irresistible aroma while baking. Let’s create the best banana bread you’ve ever tasted!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread

Here’s why this recipe stands out from the rest:

Perfect Texture:
Incredibly moist and tender with a slightly crispy top crust.
Rich Banana Flavor:
Uses very ripe bananas for the most intense, natural banana taste.
Simple Ingredients:
Made with basic pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
No Special Equipment:
Just bowls and a loaf pan – no mixer required!
Versatile:
Easy to customize with nuts, chocolate chips, or other mix-ins.

Ingredients for Banana Bread

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious bread:

Main Ingredients

Ripe Bananas: The riper, the better – look for bananas with plenty of brown spots.
All-Purpose Flour: Creates the perfect structure.
Butter: Adds richness and flavor.
Eggs: Provides structure and moisture.
Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and caramel notes.
Granulated Sugar: For balanced sweetness.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the flavors.
Baking Soda: Helps the bread rise.
Salt: Balances the sweetness.
Cinnamon: Adds warm, cozy flavor.

Optional Mix-ins

Chopped Walnuts or Pecans: For crunch.
Chocolate Chips: For extra indulgence.
Cinnamon Sugar: For topping.

How to Make The Ultimate Banana Bread

Follow these simple steps for perfect banana bread every time:

Step 1: Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
Mash the ripe bananas in a large bowl.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

Whisk melted butter into the mashed bananas.
Add beaten eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract.
Stir until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

Step 4: Make the Batter

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients.
Mix until just combined – don’t overmix.
Fold in any optional mix-ins.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing.

Tips for Perfect Banana Bread

Use Very Ripe Bananas: The darker and spottier, the better for flavor.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to ensure tender bread.
Check Early: Start checking for doneness at 55 minutes.
Cool Properly: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing.
Storage: Wrap well and store at room temperature for up to 4 days.