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Best Banana Bread

A comforting banana bread recipe with caramelized banana flavor, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup granulated sugar or 3/4 cup honey or maple syrup for a healthier option.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted or coconut oil for dairy-free.
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 3 very ripe bananas mashed (about 1 1/2 cups). The riper, the more flavor.
  • 1/4 cup plain yogurt or sour cream adds tender moisture; swap for applesauce to cut fat.
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour or half whole wheat for a wholesome twist.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder for lift
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional) for warm spice notes.
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional: toasted for a nuttier crunch).
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips for an indulgent dessert version.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment for easy removal.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until glossy. Add the eggs and vanilla, and whisk until the mixture smooths into a golden ribbon.
  3. Stir in the mashed bananas and yogurt. The batter will smell deeply of roasted banana; taste a spoonful if you must—this is the soul of the bread.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
  5. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Fold in nuts or chocolate chips if using.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Smooth the top and scatter a few extra banana slices or a sprinkle of sugar on top.
  8. Bake for 50–65 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.
  9. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift onto a rack to cool completely.

Notes

Use very ripe bananas for the sweetest bread. Measure flour correctly to avoid a dense loaf. Store appropriately to maintain freshness.