Step-by-Step: How to Make Classic Banana Bread
1. Preheat the Oven
Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
2. Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Their natural sugars are the star of this recipe.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
Stir in melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until fully combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt. Gently fold this mixture into the wet ingredients—being careful not to overmix, which can make the bread dense.
5. Add Extras (Optional)
Fold in nuts or chocolate chips if desired.
6. Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour the batter into the loaf pan and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
7. Slice and Enjoy
Serve warm with butter, or let cool completely for easy slicing.
Final Thoughts
Banana bread is proof that the simplest recipes are often the most beloved. It’s a dessert, a snack, and even breakfast—all in one loaf. Its universal appeal lies in the balance of sweetness, the tenderness of the crumb, and the heartwarming aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes.
It’s no wonder that everyone loves banana bread—it’s not just food, it’s comfort, tradition, and a little slice of happiness.
