Few baked goods feel as universally comforting and nostalgic as Classic Homemade Banana Bread. With its moist crumb, golden crust, and irresistibly sweet banana aroma, this familiar treat instantly brightens any kitchen. Whether you’re baking for a lazy Sunday breakfast or using up those extra ripe bananas, Classic Homemade Banana Bread strikes the perfect balance of simplicity and old-fashioned flavor. Each slice is warm, soft, and deeply satisfying—no wonder it’s a favorite in home kitchens everywhere!

Classic Homemade Banana Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a long shopping list to whip up a spectacular Classic Homemade Banana Bread. In fact, these everyday pantry staples come together magically, each one playing its part: from the richness of butter to the moist sweetness of overripe bananas and that irresistible hint of vanilla. Here’s what you’ll gather before you start:

All-purpose flour: Gives the bread its soft structure and tender crumb, balancing the moisture from the bananas.
Baking soda: Ensures the loaf rises beautifully, creating a light, airy center.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
Unsalted butter (softened): Adds a rich, buttery flavor that makes every bite wonderfully comforting.
Granulated sugar: Offers just the right touch of sweetness without overpowering the banana flavor.
Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together, contributing to the bread’s moist texture.
Ripe bananas (mashed): The star ingredient! Very ripe bananas deliver deep flavor and natural sweetness.
Whole milk: Adds tenderness and helps bring all the ingredients together.
Vanilla extract: A must for that delightful, aromatic finishing note.
Ground cinnamon (optional): Offers a subtle warmth and spice for extra cozy flavor.
Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): For crunch and an earthy, nutty bite that complements the cake’s softness.

How to Make Classic Homemade Banana Bread

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. Preparing your pan and oven in advance sets you up for an effortless baking process and a loaf that slips out perfectly every time.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Grab a medium bowl and whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon if you’re using it. This step ensures all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, so your Classic Homemade Banana Bread will have a uniform, delicate crumb.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream your softened butter with the granulated sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy—this airiness promises a soft, velvety texture once baked. Take your time, as this is the secret to a truly tender crumb.

Step 4: Add Eggs, Bananas, Milk, and Vanilla

One at a time, beat the eggs into the butter-sugar mixture. Next, stir in the mashed bananas, whole milk, and vanilla extract. These wet ingredients not only add flavor but also ensure each slice of Classic Homemade Banana Bread is delightfully moist.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently just until combined. Overmixing can make the bread dense rather than tender, so mix with a light hand.

Step 6: Fold in the Nuts (if using)

If you love a bit of crunch, now’s the time to gently fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans. They add extra flavor and a satisfying texture to each bite of your Classic Homemade Banana Bread.

Step 7: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top. Slide it into the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick poked into the center comes out clean. As it bakes, your kitchen will fill with the wonderful aroma of fresh banana bread.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Once baked, let your Classic Homemade Banana Bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully transfer it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Slicing warm is tempting, but patience pays off—a fully cooled loaf is easier to cut and beautifully moist.

How to Serve Classic Homemade Banana Bread

Garnishes

Dress up your Classic Homemade Banana Bread with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or even a dollop of whipped cream. For a rustic touch, sprinkle some extra chopped nuts or a handful of toasted coconut on top of each slice.

Side Dishes

Pairing is part of the fun! Enjoy thick slices alongside a mug of coffee, spiced chai, or a cold glass of milk. For a brunch spread, serve it with fresh berries, Greek yogurt, or a savory quiche to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your banana bread into something special by toasting thick slices and slathering them with butter or cream cheese. You can also cube leftover bread, layer with vanilla pudding and berries for an easy trifle, or use slices for an indulgent French toast breakfast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Classic Homemade Banana Bread stays fresh and moist for several days. Let your bread cool completely, then wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days. If your kitchen runs warm, pop it in the fridge for added freshness.

Freezing

Banana bread freezes wonderfully! Once fully cooled, wrap the loaf tightly (whole or sliced) in both plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or slip it into a freezer bag. It will keep for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature whenever the craving strikes.

Reheating

To enjoy your Classic Homemade Banana Bread warm, microwave a slice for 10–20 seconds, or heat it in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. Toasting slices in a skillet with a little butter adds a lovely crisp edge and richer flavor.

FAQs

Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even a handful of shredded coconut can be folded into the batter for extra flavor and texture. Just keep the total add-ins to about half a cup to maintain the bread’s structure.

What’s the best way to ripen bananas quickly?

If your bananas aren’t quite ripe, pop them (unpeeled) in a 300°F oven for 15–20 minutes. Their skins will darken, and the flesh will soften and sweeten, making them perfect for Classic Homemade Banana Bread.

Can I substitute non-dairy milk?

Yes, you can easily use almond, soy, or oat milk instead of whole milk. It won’t dramatically affect the texture or flavor, making it a great swap for those who are dairy-free.

Why did my banana bread turn out dense or dry?

Overmixing the batter or using too much flour can make banana bread dense. For a moist loaf, be sure to measure ingredients precisely and mix just until everything is combined.

How can I keep my banana bread moist after baking?

Be sure to let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Keeping air out is key to preventing dryness and preserving that just-baked freshness.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something irresistible about Classic Homemade Banana Bread—it truly is a recipe everyone should have in their back pocket. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this bread delivers comfort, joy, and mouthwatering flavor in every single bite. Treat yourself and your loved ones by baking a loaf soon; it’s one of life’s simplest and most delicious pleasures!

Classic Homemade Banana Bread Recipe

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4.8 from 24 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 10 slices 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the comforting aroma and taste of this Classic Homemade Banana Bread. This easy-to-follow recipe yields a moist and flavorful loaf perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Wet Ingredients:

1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
3 ripe bananas (mashed)
1/4 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Add-ins:

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a loaf pan.
Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, combine flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Cream butter and sugar: Beat butter and sugar until light.
Add wet ingredients: Mix in eggs, bananas, milk, and vanilla.
Combine: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture.
Add nuts: Fold in nuts if desired.
Bake: Pour batter into pan and bake for 55-65 minutes.
Cool and serve: Let cool before slicing and serving.