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Classic Banana Bread

A cozy, timeless loaf that transforms overripe bananas into a fragrant, tender bread suitable for breakfast or as a dessert.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 1.75 cups all-purpose flour Swap half for whole wheat flour for a nutty boost.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Optional; toast for deeper aroma.
Wet Ingredients
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted and cooled Use coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
  • 0.75 cups brown sugar Or 1/2 cup honey for a lighter sweetness.
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten Flax eggs work for a vegan swap.
  • 1 cup mashed very ripe bananas About 2 to 3 bananas; the riper, the sweeter.
  • 0.25 cups plain Greek yogurt Or sour cream for extra tenderness; dairy-free yogurt is fine.
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Add-ins
  • 0.5 cups chopped walnuts or pecans Optional; toast for crunch.
  • 0.33 cups chocolate chips or dried cranberries For a festive twist.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter with the brown sugar until shiny and smooth.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, then stir in the mashed bananas, yogurt, and vanilla.
  5. Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and fold gently with a spatula until just combined.
  6. Fold in nuts or chocolate chips if using.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smooth the top, and sprinkle the reserved chips or extra chopped nuts.
Baking
  1. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  2. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift it out and cool on a wire rack.
  3. Slice after it’s mostly cooled to preserve the tender crumb.

Notes

Adjust sugar and mix-ins based on health or indulgence preferences. This bread freezes well, making it a lovely make-ahead option.