Description

A moist and flavorful banana bread packed with ripe bananas, warm spices, and a buttery richness. Customizable with nuts or chocolate chips, it's a simple yet impressive quick bread perfect for any time of day.

Ingredients

3 to 4 very ripe bananas, mashed

½ cup melted butter

1 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon cinnamon

¼ teaspoon nutmeg

½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas thoroughly.
Stir in the melted butter, then mix in the sugar until smooth and slightly pale.
Beat in the eggs one at a time and add the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, being careful not to overmix.
If using, fold in the chopped nuts.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smooth the top, and tap the pan to release air bubbles.
Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Optionally, brush the top with melted butter or dust lightly with cinnamon after baking.
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For best flavor, use bananas that are heavily speckled or mostly black.

Substitute chocolate chips for nuts for a sweeter variation.

Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze slices for up to 3 months.

To reheat, microwave a slice for 15–20 seconds or lightly toast.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55–65 minutes
Category: Quick Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 250
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 40mg