Easy Banana Bread Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a banana bread recipe that’s easy, delicious, and guaranteed to work every time, this is it! The addition of mayonnaise makes this banana bread incredibly moist, while the combination of ripe bananas and crunchy pecans adds flavor and texture. Plus, it’s a great way to use up ripe bananas that you may have otherwise thrown away. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack or serving it for breakfast, this banana bread will surely become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 medium bananas (about 1 cup mashed)

• ½ cup mayonnaise or dressing

• 1 egg (room temperature)

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease an 8×4-inch loaf pan and set it aside.

2. Mash the bananas with a fork. In a medium bowl, combine the mashed bananas, mayonnaise, and egg.

3. In a separate large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and pecans (if using).

4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—this will result in dense bread.

5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Remove the banana bread from the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

• Servings: 12 servings

Variations

• Banana Bread Muffins: If you’d prefer banana muffins instead of a loaf, divide the batter evenly among 12 muffin wells and bake for 14-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

• Add-ins: You can add chocolate chips, raisins, or even dried cranberries for a twist on the classic banana bread.

• Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor.

• Gluten-Free: Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week.

• Freezing: You can freeze banana bread for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.

• Reheating: To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or warm it in a toaster oven for a few minutes.

FAQs

1. How do I ripen bananas quickly for banana bread?

To ripen bananas quickly, bake them at 300°F for 15-20 minutes until they are soft and darkened. Let them cool before using.

2. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes! Just thaw the frozen bananas and mash them before adding them to the batter.

3. Can I substitute the mayonnaise with something else?

You can substitute mayonnaise with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a slightly different flavor, though mayonnaise gives the bread a moist and tender texture.

4. How do I know when the banana bread is done baking?

Check the banana bread with a toothpick about 10 minutes before the suggested baking time is up. If it comes out clean, your banana bread is ready.

5. Can I add nuts to the banana bread?

Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts can be added to the batter for some crunch. If you don’t want any nuts, just leave them out.

6. How do I avoid dense banana bread?

To avoid dense banana bread, make sure not to overmix the batter. Stir just until combined, and stop once the ingredients are mixed.

7. Can I make this recipe in a different-sized loaf pan?

If you use a different-sized pan, the baking time will vary. Keep an eye on your banana bread, and check for doneness with a toothpick.

8. How long should I let the banana bread cool before slicing?

Let the banana bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This helps it set and prevents it from being too crumbly.

9. Can I make banana bread muffins instead of a loaf?

Yes, simply divide the batter among muffin wells and bake for 14-18 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

10. How can I make the banana bread even more flavorful?

Add spices like cinnamon, vanilla extract, or a pinch of nutmeg to give the bread an extra layer of flavor.

Conclusion

This easy banana bread recipe is a great choice for beginner bakers or anyone looking for a quick and tasty treat. With its simple ingredients and foolproof steps, you can have a delicious loaf of moist banana bread in under 1 hour and 10 minutes. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this banana bread is sure to satisfy your cravings.