The Best Banana Bread Recipe

Name: The Best Banana Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 cup white sugar; 0.5 cup margarine, softened; 2 eggs; 1.5 cups mashed banana; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda

Cook Time: 60 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 15 servings. Ingredient amounts are adjusted automatically, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

1 cup white sugar
cup margarine, softened
2 eggs
1 cups mashed banana
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda

Directions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious banana bread:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, beat together the sugar and softened margarine until smooth.
Step 3: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the mashed bananas until fully combined.
Step 4: Add the flour and baking soda. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread; it should come out clean when done.
Step 7: Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven. Let it cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Store the bread in the refrigerator or freeze it for longer storage.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount
Calories	196
Total Fat	7g (9% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat	1g (7% Daily Value)
Cholesterol	25mg (8% Daily Value)
Sodium	175mg (8% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate	31g (11% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber	1g (4% Daily Value)
Total Sugars	16g
Protein	3g (6% Daily Value)
Vitamin C	2mg (2% Daily Value)
Calcium	9mg (1% Daily Value)
Iron	1mg (6% Daily Value)
Potassium	111mg (2% Daily Value)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

History of Banana Bread

Banana bread has become a staple in many kitchens worldwide, often seen as the perfect way to use overripe bananas. Though the exact origin of banana bread is hard to pinpoint, it became especially popular in the United States during the 1930s. This was due in part to the rise of baking soda and baking powder as leavening agents, which made the creation of quick breads like banana bread simpler and faster. The recipe was likely inspired by early fruit breads, where mashed fruits like bananas were used to sweeten and add moisture to the loaf.

Regional Variations

Banana bread varies widely across regions. In the United States, it is a beloved quick bread, often made with just bananas, sugar, flour, eggs, and butter or margarine. However, in other parts of the world, such as the Caribbean or parts of Southeast Asia, banana bread may include additional ingredients like coconut, nuts, or spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. In countries like New Zealand and Australia, banana bread is often served toasted with butter for breakfast, while in the U.S., it is typically enjoyed as a snack or dessert.

How It Differs from Other Quick Breads

Banana bread belongs to the category of quick breads, which are leavened with baking soda or baking powder instead of yeast. What sets banana bread apart from other quick breads, like zucchini bread or pumpkin bread, is its moist texture and natural sweetness derived from the bananas themselves. Unlike pumpkin bread, which is spiced with cinnamon and cloves, banana breads flavor profile is more subtle and often enhanced with the addition of vanilla or chocolate chips.

Where Its Typically Served

Banana bread is versatile and can be served at almost any time of day. Its a popular choice for breakfast, often toasted and spread with butter or jam. In the afternoon, it makes a wonderful snack with a cup of tea or coffee. Its also commonly found at potlucks, brunches, and even as a gift during the holidays. Its simplicity and comforting texture make it a favorite for all occasions, whether served plain or dressed up with add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips.

Interesting Facts

The world record for the largest banana bread weighed over 2,000 pounds and was baked in 2001 in the United States.
Bananas, the key ingredient in banana bread, are one of the most consumed fruits worldwide, known for their high potassium content.
In some cultures, banana bread is thought to be a symbol of hospitality and is often baked and shared with guests.
Banana bread was first made popular by home cooks during the Great Depression, when food was scarce, and overripe bananas were a way to avoid waste.
The recipe for banana bread has evolved over the years, with modern versions incorporating diverse ingredients like chocolate chips, dried fruits, and various nuts.

FAQ about The Best Banana Bread Recipe

Banana bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to 1 week. Alternatively, for longer storage, freeze the bread by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and placing it in a freezer bag. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Just thaw them and mash them as you would with fresh bananas. Frozen bananas can add extra moisture, so be sure to adjust the flour slightly if you find the batter too runny.

Yes, you can easily turn this banana bread recipe into muffins. Simply divide the batter into muffin tins and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smaller baking time allows for a quicker result.

You can substitute margarine with an equal amount of unsalted butter or vegetable oil. For a healthier alternative, you can also try using applesauce or Greek yogurt, though this may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the bread.

The best bananas for banana bread are overripe, with brown spots or even fully brown peels. If you don't have overripe bananas, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag for a couple of days. Alternatively, you can bake them in their peel at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes until soft.

You can enhance the flavor by adding ingredients such as cinnamon, vanilla extract, or nutmeg. Some people also enjoy adding chocolate chips, nuts (like walnuts or pecans), or dried fruit. For an extra moist texture, try adding a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt.

If your banana bread is too dense, try using less flour. Over-measuring the flour can lead to a heavier loaf. You can also try adding a little more baking soda to help it rise or consider adjusting the mashed banana amount for a lighter texture.

Yes, banana bread freezes very well. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave it at room temperature for several hours or microwave individual slices.

Banana bread can become dry if it's overbaked or if too much flour was added. To prevent this, make sure to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread—when it comes out clean, it's done. Also, consider using a bit more mashed banana or adding moisture-rich ingredients like yogurt or applesauce.

To achieve a higher rise in your banana bread, make sure your baking soda is fresh. Overmixing the batter can also lead to a denser loaf, so mix the ingredients just until combined. Additionally, consider baking at a slightly higher temperature or placing the bread in the center of the oven to allow for even heat distribution.

Comments

FOXFIRE2

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

The recipe is good, it's me baking the banana bread that is a work in progress! I have asked members for tips that really helped: don't over mix, lower rack so that top of bread is halfway point in oven, my loaf dish is glass so lower temperature in my oven to 325 degrees and tent with foil if the top of loaf is getting too dark. I did as others suggested modifying the recipe and used half cup white sugar/half cup brown sugar.

Susie

08/22/2006 06:45:27 AM

I have made this recipe a bunch of times now. My husband loves it, but I add walnuts for him. It is so easy and tastes great! I make muffins out of mine and bake for 35 minutes instead of 1 hour. Making muffins cuts the baking time down. I want to add that I now make this with 1 cup flour and 1 cup oatmeal. It is less dense and more moist this way.

Maritime Rider

09/16/2006 05:20:32 PM

I HAVE BEEN USING THIS RECIPE FOR MANY YEARS.NEVER MEASURED THE BANANAS,USED4-5 MED.ONES AND USED ONE TSP.OF SALT.PERSONAL PREFERENCE REALLY.DEPENDING ON YOUR STOVE,IT MAY TAKE MORE THAN AN HOUR.IF IT APPEARS RAW IN THE MIDDLE AFTER THE TOOTHPICK TEST;COVER THE TOP WITH FOIL WRAP,SHINY SIDE DOWN.THIS GIVES THE MIDDLE A CHANCE TO CATCH UP.WARM OR COLD,BEST BANANA BREAD EVER WITH NO FUSS.

Mark Taylor

09/07/2005 04:57:11 AM

Fast, simple, and it actually tastes incredible.

TRISKELE

03/19/2006 06:38:21 AM

I've never made a really good banana bread until I tried this recipe this morning. I did modify some things--used real butter, half white and half brown sugar, added 1 tbs cinnamon, 1 tsp vanilla, and a dash of salt. I didn't measure the bananas, but used the four I had on hand that were mostly black on the outside, soft and sweet on the inside. Sprinkled the top with sliced almonds, since it's what I had on hand. It baked up beautifully in exactly one hour. What a great Sunday breakfast!

Erika

12/25/2007 02:01:21 PM

I was worried about how this was going to turn out because I'm not the very best cook! I was shocked with the results because I actually made something that tasted very delicious!!! I used 1/2 cup of white sugar and 1/2 cup of brown sugar. I also sprinkled walnuts on the top. The picture does not do it justice this is an amazing bread! I've made it 3 times this month- it's THAT good! It was the biggest hit at a potluck party and it was all gone. This recipe deserves 10 stars!!! Try it and you too will fall in love with it!

Courtnie Kom

09/26/2023 06:38:29 PM

Took the advice of the top review and reduced the flour to 1 1/2 cups of flour (same amount of mashed banana I had), which significantly improved the texture and flavor from my previous by-the-book attempt. Of course, this was a recipe made with the overripe bananas I had on hand but I would have liked to add at least one more banana to really make the flavor pop. I also switched to 3/4 c brown sugar to replace the white sugar and that was perfect for me. When I made it again with the flour adjustments, I again had 1 1/2 c banana on hand but only white sugar, so I used 2/3 c of white sugar -- that was a tad too sweet for me. Finally, a dash of cinnamon was a really nice addition!

Jules

09/19/2024 12:31:53 AM

This is very tasty! I like the cake type banana bread. I changed the butter to 1/4 cup and added 1/4 Cup sour cream. I also added 1 teaspoon of baking powder. It raised nicely.

Kari Stull

11/27/2024 02:06:47 AM

Its great, don't get me wrong. I do add extra banana. I also add cinnamon, vanilla & sometimes chocolate chips =) then i use 2 9x5 pans butter very nicely and only bake about 45 minutes.

Jenn

07/25/2020 06:29:51 PM

Yum! Best banana bread! I would recommend for anyone who wants an easy and super delicious bread. I only used a quarter of the sugar and I added another banana. I also added a few chocolate chips. A double batch made one large loaf and 2 mini loaves. I cooked the large one for about 45 mins and the small ones for 30. I have also made this recipe with no added sugar for my sugar-free friend and she loved it! Thank you so much for the recipe!

ugfinds

10/30/2021 11:55:26 AM

I've tried different recipes for banana bread, but this is the easiest and results in the most fluffiest, softest and best-tasting banana bread ever. It's also the most convenient because you don't need buttermilk. The only changes I made to the recipe were that I used butter instead of margarine, mashed 4 bananas instead of 3, added almond slices and spread white cream icing all over it after the bread cooled down. My son LOVED it!

TameBoard4110

09/18/2025 12:16:50 AM

Simple, I added 1/2 cup apple sauce and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon.... Turned out great. 1 used 4 bananas.

Julie Lema Weyhrauch

09/07/2025 01:54:12 AM

My family likes cinnamon & sugar. So I greased the pan and then put 3 teaspoons of cinnamon & sugar in loaf pans dusted it like flour. I also sprinkled cinnamon & sugar on top. I made a double batch. I used 1 cup white sugar and one cup packed brown sugar plus 2 teaspoons cinnamon. I also added 1 cup pecans to one loaf.. My family loved it. They said make it again.💖

Christine

08/28/2025 10:59:07 PM

This has been my go to banana bread recipe for eight years now! Easy and delicious, and it freezes perfectly. I us salted butter instead of margarine add 1/2 tsp each of cinnamon and vanilla extract. Occasionally it will take about 5 to 10 extra minutes to bake so I always bake it for an hour and then check it * You can also use this recipe for banana muffins, in which case you only need to bake for about 30 minutes

Anne Robertson

08/17/2025 11:13:47 PM

I doubled the recipe and added choc chips. Love this Recipe!!

Keri-Anne

08/02/2025 01:14:31 AM

Taste great and easy to follow, quick without needing a lot of ingredients

Brody

07/13/2025 07:11:57 PM

Amazing flavors

Dawna Matthes

07/07/2025 07:53:26 PM

I followed the ingredients, with exception of butter instead of margarine, for this Banana bread, also added a banana or 2, more and didn't cream anything, just shot everything into one bowl and mixed until well combined, placed into pans and oven a 350 for an hour and it was phenomenal. Thank you!

SilverGyro3561

06/14/2025 09:33:13 PM

Loved it! I made 3 times the recipe and made 8 small loaves in stones. It was so good! I used butter flavored Crisco. I also used vanilla and added nuts. It’s so moist! My dad and mom loved it!

Donnarene

05/24/2025 02:55:17 PM

Perfect as is. I use 7 disposable cake pans 3x6 ". Approximately 45 minutes. Doubled recipe so some to share. Delicious 😋

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