Name: Moist Banana Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 bananas); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 cup milk; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Why You’ll Love Moist Banana Bread Recipe

Super moist and tender texture
Packed with banana flavor from real mashed bananas
Simple pantry ingredients—no fancy tools required
Customizable with nuts or chocolate chips
Makes your kitchen smell amazing while baking
Great for using up overripe bananas
Perfect for freezing and enjoying later
Easy enough for beginner bakers
Kid-friendly and lunchbox-approved
Delicious warm or at room temperature

Ingredients

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

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 bananas)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup milk
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

2. Make the Batter
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in the mashed bananas, vanilla extract, and milk until fully combined.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in chopped nuts if using.

4. Bake the Banana Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

5. Cool and Serve
Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 slices
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per slice

Variations

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Fold in 1/2 to 3/4 cup of chocolate chips for added sweetness.
Nut-Free Option: Skip the nuts entirely if preferred or for allergy concerns.
Cinnamon Banana Bread: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.
Whole Wheat Banana Bread: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
Banana Muffins: Pour the batter into muffin tins and bake for about 20–25 minutes for portable treats.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour in place of all-purpose flour.
Vegan Banana Bread: Substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, eggs with flax eggs, and use a plant-based milk.
Banana Coconut Bread: Mix in shredded coconut for tropical flavor.
Berry Banana Bread: Add a handful of blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
Zucchini Banana Bread: Add 1/2 cup of shredded zucchini for extra moisture and hidden veggies.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep in the fridge for up to a week.

Freezing: Wrap the loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a toaster oven for a warm, fresh-baked taste.

FAQs

How ripe should bananas be for banana bread?

The best bananas are heavily speckled or mostly brown. The riper they are, the sweeter and more flavorful the bread will be.

Can I make this banana bread without eggs?

Yes, you can use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) or a commercial egg replacer.

Why is my banana bread dry?

Overbaking or using too much flour can dry out banana bread. Be sure to measure ingredients properly and check for doneness around the 60-minute mark.

Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes. Thaw them first and drain excess liquid before mashing and adding to the batter.

What can I substitute for butter?

Coconut oil, vegetable oil, or a non-dairy butter alternative will all work in place of butter.

How do I prevent the bread from sticking to the pan?

Grease and flour the pan well, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or fruit?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips, berries, or dried fruits make great additions.

Why did my banana bread sink in the middle?

This usually happens from underbaking or overmixing. Ensure the batter is mixed just until combined and bake until fully set.

How do I make banana bread more moist?

Using very ripe bananas, not overmixing, and not overbaking are key to moist banana bread.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans. Baking time may vary slightly, so watch closely.

Conclusion

Moist Banana Bread is a timeless classic that never goes out of style. With its rich flavor, soft texture, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe that belongs in every home baker’s collection. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or days later, it always hits the spot.

Moist Banana Bread