Moist Banana Bread with Ripe Bananas
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Enjoy the delightful taste of this moist banana bread made with ripe bananas, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.
This banana bread recipe is not only simple but also incredibly delicious. Made with ripe bananas, it is a great way to use up overripe fruit. Each slice is moist and packed with flavor, making it a favorite among family and friends.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich banana flavor that brings comfort
- Moist texture that stays fresh for days
- Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert
The Perfect Use for Ripe Bananas
Ripe bananas are the star ingredient in this moist banana bread recipe. Utilizing bananas that are past their prime not only helps reduce food waste but also enhances the flavor of your bread. As bananas ripen, their starches convert to sugars, producing a natural sweetness that elevates the overall taste of your baked goods.
Incorporating ripe bananas into your recipes is a simple way to add moisture and richness. The natural sugars found in ripe bananas caramelize during baking, giving the bread a delightful golden crust. This makes each slice of banana bread not only flavorful but also irresistibly soft and tender.
Baking Tips for Success
To ensure your banana bread turns out perfectly every time, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially for the flour, as too much can lead to a dense loaf. Remember, the goal is to mix the batter just until combined to maintain that moist texture.
Another tip is to allow your bananas to ripen fully; the more speckled and soft they are, the better! If you’re short on time, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a brown paper bag for a day or two. This will enhance their sweetness and make them ideal for baking.
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.
Mix Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with the mashed bananas. Stir in the baking soda and salt.
Add Sugar and Egg
Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Incorporate Flour
Add the flour to the mixture and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour into Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake
Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Storing Your Banana Bread
Once baked, it's important to store your banana bread properly to maintain its moisture. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to lock in moisture and keeps the bread fresh for several days.
For longer storage, consider freezing your banana bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it in the oven for a few minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Banana bread is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Enjoy it plain, or spread a layer of butter for an extra indulgence. For a delightful twist, try adding a dollop of cream cheese or ricotta on top, enhancing the flavor profile and adding a creamy texture.
Pair your banana bread with a steaming cup of coffee or a refreshing herbal tea for a comforting breakfast or snack. You can also slice and toast it for a crunchy texture, making it an ideal canvas for toppings like fresh fruit or honey.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, you can use thawed frozen bananas. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid.
→ How should I store banana bread?
Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg or applesauce and use a plant-based butter.
→ How do I know when the banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.
Moist Banana Bread with Ripe Bananas
Enjoy the delightful taste of this moist banana bread made with ripe bananas, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.
Created by: Arielle Baxter
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Banana Bread
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with the mashed bananas. Stir in the baking soda and salt.
Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Add the flour to the mixture and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 2g