Moist Banana Bread with Ripe Bananas

Name: Moist Banana Bread with Ripe Bananas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 3/4 cup sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour

Highlighted under: Simple Kitchen

This Moist Banana Bread with Ripe Bananas is the perfect way to use up overripe bananas. It's soft, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make!

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-01-03T07:01:35.418Z

Banana bread is a beloved classic, and this recipe truly shines with ripe bananas. The sweetness of the bananas enhances the flavor, while the moist texture ensures each bite is delightful.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich banana flavor that satisfies your sweet tooth
Perfectly moist texture that keeps you coming back for more
Easy to customize with nuts or chocolate chips

      

The Secret to Moist Banana Bread

The key to achieving a beautifully moist banana bread lies in using ripe bananas. As bananas ripen, their starches break down into sugars, giving the bread a rich, natural sweetness. The ideal bananas for this recipe should have plenty of brown spots or even be fully brown. This not only enhances the flavor but also ensures a soft texture that is irresistible.

Another essential element is the use of melted butter instead of oil. The melted butter adds a rich flavor and contributes to the desired moistness of the bread. If you prefer a lighter texture, you can substitute some of the butter with yogurt or applesauce. This will maintain moisture while reducing the fat content, making it a healthier option.

Customizing Your Banana Bread

One of the best things about this banana bread recipe is its versatility. Feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences. Add in a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. If you’re a chocolate lover, toss in some chocolate chips for an indulgent treat. You can even experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to elevate the flavor profile.

For a tropical twist, consider adding shredded coconut or crushed pineapple. These ingredients not only enhance the taste but also add moisture, creating a unique banana bread experience. Remember to adjust the sugar content slightly if you add sweeter ingredients to maintain the perfect balance.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice of banana bread anytime you’re craving something sweet.

Banana bread can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve it plain for a simple snack, or spread a little butter or cream cheese on top for extra flavor. It makes a great breakfast paired with a cup of coffee or tea. For a decadent dessert, warm a slice and serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
3/4 cup sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with the mashed bananas. Stir in the baking soda and salt.

Add Sugar and Egg

Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Incorporate Flour

Finally, mix in the flour until just incorporated. Do not overmix.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding walnuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe? Absolutely! Frozen bananas are perfect for baking. Just thaw them before using, and make sure to drain any excess liquid. They will give your banana bread the same delightful flavor and moisture as fresh ripe bananas.

What can I do if my banana bread comes out too dense? If your banana bread is dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Be sure to measure your flour correctly and mix until just combined to avoid this issue.

Nutritional Information

This moist banana bread recipe is not only delicious but also provides a good source of potassium and dietary fiber from the bananas. Each slice contains a balance of carbohydrates and sugars, making it a satisfying snack or breakfast option. Adjusting the recipe with whole wheat flour or reducing sugar can make it even healthier.

While banana bread is a treat, moderation is key. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet, and consider serving it alongside fresh fruit or yogurt for added nutrition.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How do I know when the banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is done.