If there’s one comforting treat that never fails to impress — it’s banana bread. The warm, sweet aroma of ripe bananas baking in the oven can turn any day around. Even better? You can make this super moist banana bread in just one bowl! No mixers, no mess — just delicious, tender banana goodness in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This One-Bowl Banana Bread
This recipe is a keeper because:
- It’s quick and easy — just mix everything in one bowl.
- It’s made with simple pantry ingredients.
- It’s perfectly moist, soft, and rich in banana flavor.
- It freezes beautifully — perfect for meal prep or snacking all week long.
You don’t need to be a pro baker for this one — just a few ripe bananas and a mixing spoon!
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you begin, grab these simple ingredients from your kitchen:
- 3 ripe bananas (the riper, the better!)
- ½ cup melted butter (unsalted preferred)
- ¾ cup brown sugar (for a deeper flavor)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- A pinch of salt
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
Optional add-ins:
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ½ cup chocolate chips
Step 1: Mash the Bananas
Start by peeling your ripe bananas and placing them in a large mixing bowl. Using a fork or potato masher, mash until mostly smooth — a few small lumps add great texture.
Tip: The darker the banana peel, the sweeter and moister your bread will be!
Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients
Into the same bowl, mix in:
- Melted butter
- Brown sugar
- Egg
- Vanilla extract
Whisk everything together until smooth and combined.
This step is where the magic begins — the melted butter and banana create that rich, moist texture everyone loves.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Sprinkle in the baking soda, salt, and flour. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until the batter is just combined.
Pro Tip: Don’t overmix! Stirring too much can make the bread dense instead of soft and tender.
Now’s the time to fold in any extras — nuts or chocolate chips work wonderfully here.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Pour in the batter and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are okay).
Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Slice, Serve, and Enjoy
Once cooled, slice thick pieces and serve with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
If you manage not to eat it all right away, wrap leftovers tightly — banana bread stays moist for up to 4 days at room temperature or a week in the fridge.
Bonus Tips for Perfect Banana Bread Every Time
- Use overripe bananas: Those black-speckled ones are pure gold!
- Add yogurt or sour cream: For extra moisture, add 2 tablespoons.
- Try brown butter: Toast your butter first for a nutty flavor twist.
- Make it mini: Use muffin tins for individual banana bread bites — just bake for 20–25 minutes.
Final Takeaway
Banana bread is the ultimate comfort bake — simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. This one-bowl recipe makes cleanup a breeze while giving you that bakery-style moist texture we all crave.
So next time you spot a few overripe bananas on the counter, don’t toss them — turn them into this easy, one-bowl banana bread masterpiece!
✨ Save this recipe for later and share it with a friend who loves easy baking! ✨
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