Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. - Mash the Bananas:
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. The more mashed they are, the more flavor they’ll impart to the bread. - Mix the Wet Ingredients:
Add the melted butter to the mashed bananas and mix until combined. Then stir in the beaten egg, sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well blended. - Combine Dry Ingredients:
Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the banana mixture and mix in. Finally, add the flour and mix until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are okay. If you’re adding nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in gently. - Pour Into Pan:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. - Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil to prevent burning. - Cool and Slice:
Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips for the Perfect Moist Banana Bread
- Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your banana bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots or even ones that are completely brown.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to tough banana bread. Mix until the dry ingredients are just incorporated to ensure a light, moist texture.
- Store Properly: To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for a week. You can also freeze it for up to three months; just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Conclusion
This moist banana bread recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a beloved classic. With its soft texture and rich flavor, it’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Easy to make and adaptable to your taste, this banana bread is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. So, gather your ripe bananas, and get ready to enjoy a slice of heaven!
