Simple Banana Bread Recipe

Banana bread is a beloved classic, known for its moist texture and sweet, banana flavor. This simple banana bread recipe is perfect for beginners and a great way to use up overripe bananas. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat, a snack, or a dessert, banana bread is a versatile and comforting option.

This banana bread recipe results in a moist and flavorful loaf, with a tender crumb and rich banana taste. It’s easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for home bakers of all skill levels.

Banana bread became popular in the United States during the Great Depression as an economical way to use overripe bananas. Since then, it has become a staple in households around the world, often passed down through generations as a family favorite.

Ingredients for the Simple Banana Bread Recipe

• 250g self-raising flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 100g unsalted butter, softened
• 150g caster sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 4 ripe bananas, mashed (about 400g)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 60ml milk

Preparation Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or Gas Mark 4. Grease and line a 2lb (900g) loaf tin.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the self-raising flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and caster sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
5. Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
6. Gradually add the flour mixture to the banana mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and smooth the top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.
9. Allow the bread to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

How Do I Store Simple Banana Bread?

To store banana bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place the wrapped loaf in a resealable plastic bag and refrigerate for up to a week. Banana bread can also be frozen for up to 3 months; wrap it in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer.

Nutritional Information

Per slice (based on 12 slices per loaf):

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Sugar: 18g
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Fibre: 1g
• Sodium: 220mg

FAQ about the Simple Banana Bread Recipe

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of self-raising flour? Yes, but the texture will be denser. You’ll also need to add 1 tsp of baking powder and ½ tsp of baking soda.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this recipe? Absolutely! Fold in 100g of chopped nuts or chocolate chips after mixing the batter.

How can I make this banana bread vegan? Replace the butter with a plant-based margarine, the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg), and the milk with a non-dairy alternative.

Enjoy your simple banana bread fresh out of the oven, or toasted with a pat of butter. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee and makes for a delightful treat any time of the day.