Classic Banana Bread

Everyone needs a classic banana bread recipe.

This is the moist and delicious recipe we use in my family, and it has two options for making it.  

You can either make a traditional banana bread loaf or jazz it up with a crumble topping like you'd find in your favorite coffee shop. 

Best Banana Bread Recipe

Banana Bread with Crunch Topping

Banana bread is delicious any time of day.  It is perfect in the morning with your coffee.  When you need a grab-and-go breakfast, a slice of moist banana bread is a good solution. 

This is the banana bread my mom made for my brothers and sister, for me, and for all her grandchildren. Now that I am a grandmother, this is the easy banana bread recipe I make for my precious granddaughters.

The Reasons You'll Love This Banana Bread Recipe

Banana bread is a beloved classic that many people enjoy, whether as a sweet breakfast treat, a snack, or even a dessert. 

It's easy to make: This simple banana bread recipe only requires a few simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. The banana bread is forgiving – even if you make a mistake, it's likely still going to taste delicious.

It's a great way to use up ripe bananas: Do you have some overripe bananas sitting on your kitchen counter? Homemade banana bread is a great way to use up bananas that are too ripe to eat on their own. Not only will you be reducing food waste, but you'll also get a delicious treat out of it.

You can customize the recipe: There are countless variations of banana bread, so you can tailor the recipe to your preferences. Do you like nuts? Add some chopped walnuts or pecans. Prefer a little extra sweetness? Add some chocolate chips. Try the crunch topping for a bit of a change. The possibilities are endless!

It fills your home with a fantastic aroma: One of the best things about baking banana bread is the amazing aroma that fills your home as it bakes. It's the perfect way to make your home feel cozy and welcoming.

This banana bread is a crowd-pleaser: Whether you're baking for your family, friends, or co-workers, this banana bread is sure to be a hit. It's a classic treat that everyone loves, and it's easy to transport if you need to bring it to a potluck or party. Plus, you'll feel proud of yourself for creating something delicious from scratch.

You can make it ahead. Banana bread freezes beautifully.  Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag.  There's nothing better than having a loaf of banana bread on hand when you need it.

Tip:  Freeze ripe bananas by first removing the peel and then wrapping them individually in plastic wrap.  Store in a zipper freezer bag for making banana bread and smoothies.

This Banana Bread Recipe Has Two Options

Option 1: The traditional way to make my banana bread recipe is to follow the recipe without making the crunch topping.  That's how I make it most frequently.  

When you are in the mood for banana bread with a twist, just add the crunchy topping.  Who doesn't like a little bit of sweet crunch to start their day?

Banana Crunch Bread Loaf

Option 2: You can make this crunch topping with 1/3 cup all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, and 1/3 cup cold butter, in chunks. 

Place the flour, sugar, and butter in a medium bowl. Using your hands, toss the ingredients and then squeeze the butter, flour, and sugar together between your fingers until well combined and crumbly. 

Sprinkle on top of the batter before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen bananas for banana bread?

Yes! Frozen bananas can actually work really well for banana bread. You can usually find frozen bananas in my freezer for this recipe. move the skin and wrap each banana individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. Just let them thaw out completely before mashing them up for the recipe.

How do I know when my banana bread is done?

A toothpick inserted into the center of the bread should come out clean when it's done. The top should also be golden brown and the edges should be pulling away from the sides of the pan. A good loaf pan is important.

How do I store my banana bread?

Wrap your banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze it for up to three months.

Can I make banana bread in advance?

Yes, banana bread can be made in advance. In fact, it can be even better the next day as the flavors will have had time to meld together. Just make sure to store it properly (see previous question) and let it come to room temperature before serving.

My Banana Bread Recipe

breakfast bread, snack bread, quick bread

Breakfast, Snack

American

Yield: 12 slices

Author: Donna Urso

Classic Banana Bread

A moist, delicious banana bread recipe with an optional crunchy topping,

Prep time: 10 MinCook time: 60 MinTotal time: 1 H & 10 M

Ingredients

Banana Bread

• 2 eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, room temperature
• 3 small bananas(or 2 large ripe bananas), mashed
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 cup hot water
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

To Prepare the Banana Bread

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Lightly grease a glass or metal loaf pan.
3. Mix together the flour and salt. Set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition.
5. Mash the bananas with the back of a fork. and add to the egg mixture.
6. Dissolve the baking soda in the hot water and add to the batter.
7. Add the flour mixture and the vanilla. Stir to combine.
8. Your batter will be lumpy. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
9. Optional: Make the crunch topping with 1/3 cup all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, and 1/3 cup cold butter, in chunks. Place the flour, sugar, and butter in a medium bowl. Using your hands, toss the ingredients and then squeeze the butter, flour, and sugar together between your fingers until well combined and crumbly. Sprinkle on top of the bread.
10. Bake for 50 minutes to one hour or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the loaf comes out clean. The size of your loaf pan will determine the length of time you need to cook the bread. Be careful not to overbake.
11. Let the bread cool in the pan for ten minutes and then turn it out onto a rack to cool completely. You'll want to let your banana bread cool completely for easy slicing.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

243.57

Fat (grams)

8.75 g

Sat. Fat (grams)

5.18 g

Carbs (grams)

38.44 g

Fiber (grams)

1.22 g

Net carbs

37.22 g

Sugar (grams)

19.86 g

Protein (grams)

3.55 g

Sodium (milligrams)

266.72 mg

Cholesterol (grams)

51.34 mg

The nutritional information is for the banana bread without the topping. The optional crunch topping changes the nutritional information.

Similar Recipes

Cinnamon Quick Bread

Cranberry Bread

Pumpkin Bread and Pumpkin Muffins with Streusel Topping

https://www.justonedonna.com/2019/02/best-banana-bread-recipe.html

©Just One Donna

Thank you for sharing this post with your friends on social media. Your Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Yummly shares are greatly appreciated. 

 Enjoy!