Description
A tender, fragrant banana bread infused with ripe banana flavor and optional add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Its rich moister and balanced spices make it the ultimate comfort loaf, adaptable for dietary needs.
Ingredients
- 3 cups ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup (113g) melted butter or coconut oil
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose or gluten-free flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup chopped walnuts/pecans or chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mash bananas until smooth and no lumps remain.
- Mix in melted butter (or oil), sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg) and stir gently until just mixed.
- Fold in optional add-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or extra banana slices.
- Transfer batter to prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 55 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Use overripe bananas (dark brown spots) for max sweetness
- Test baking soda freshness by mixing with water—it should fizz
- Coconut oil substitute gives a faint tropical note while keeping it dairy-free
- Store in airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for 2 months