There’s something so comforting about banana bread—it’s the kind of recipe that brings people together. Whether it’s the smell of ripe bananas and warm spices filling the kitchen or the first soft bite, this bread feels like home.
In our family, banana bread is more than just a way to use up overripe bananas—it’s a tradition. It’s what we bake on quiet weekends, or when we want to share a little love with friends and family.
Join me on Nita’s Platter as I share our favorite banana bread recipe, made with love and perfect for those moments when you want something simple, sweet, and full of heart.
Easy Moist Banana Bread Recipe – Perfect for Beginners
About The Recipe
There’s a special kind of joy that comes from baking banana bread—its simplicity, the way it fills our home with warmth, and how it always brings smiles, especially to my son.
Whenever I want to lift his spirits or treat him to something special, this is my go-to recipe.
It's incredibly easy to make, yet the comfort it delivers is unmatched.
This moist banana bread recipe holds a special place in our home, blending comfort and nostalgia in every slice.
It reminds me of the weekends spent baking together, with my son’s smile lighting up the room as the sweet aroma fills the kitchen. Whenever I want to brighten his day or treat him to something special, this is my go-to recipe.
The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make, yet delivers unmatched comfort with each bite.
At Nita’s Platter, we believe the simplest recipes often carry the most love. This easy banana bread recipe isn’t just a way to use ripe bananas—it’s a family tradition, a slice of warmth shared with those we care about.
Whether you’re baking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe brings all the sweetness and connection you need, straight from our kitchen to yours.
Ingredients for Banana Bread
Optional Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Banana Bread
All Ingredients for Banana Bread at a Glance
Preparing the Banana Bread batter
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Prepare the Mashed Banana
In a mixing bowl, mash the 2-3 ripe bananas using a fork until you achieve a smooth consistency. Set this aside for later.
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Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a deep bowl, blend the butter and sugar well until a smooth, creamy texture forms
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Add Eggs and Vanilla Extract
Beat in 2 large eggs, then add 2 tablespoons of vanilla extract to get rid of the egg smell.
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Prepare Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Make sure your dry ingredients are well combined and free of lumps.
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Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the sifted flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Use a spatula to fold the dry ingredients into the batter gently until no flour pockets remain.
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Add Mix-ins
Add chocolate chips, raisins, and cinnamon powder to the mixture and fold them nicely so they are evenly combined. You can skip the dry nuts if you are allergic, it will still turn out great.
This step is optional, use the extras as per your preference.
Baking Preparation
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Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease a deep baking pan with butter and lightly dust it with flour to prevent sticking. You can also use parchment paper to avoid sticking to the bottom.
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Pour and Rest the Batter
Now, carefully pour your banana bread batter into the greased baking pan. Use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl and get every last bit of that delicious batter in. Make sure it’s spread evenly in the pan so it bakes up nice and uniform.
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Smoothing the top of batter
Hold the pan with both hands and give it a gentle shake or two to level out the banana bread batter. This helps the batter settle for even baking.
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Adding the toppings
Now, sprinkle the walnuts, raisins, and chocolate chips evenly over the top of the banana bread batter. This adds a delicious crunch, bursts of sweetness, and melty chocolate to every bite.
This step is optional; if you like extra topping, you can add it here.
Baking and Serving
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Preheat and Bake
While the batter is resting, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once preheated, place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Cooling the banana bread
Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This helps it set, making for cleaner, easier slices and enhancing the flavor.
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Slicing Banana Bread
Once the banana bread has fully cooled, use a sharp knife to slice it into even pieces. This will give you clean, smooth slices and make it easier to serve or store.
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 265kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8.8g14%
- Saturated Fat 5.2g26%
- Trans Fat 0.3g
- Cholesterol 51mg17%
- Sodium 231mg10%
- Potassium 210.8mg7%
- Total Carbohydrate 39g13%
- Dietary Fiber 1.7g7%
- Sugars 19g
- Protein 3.8g8%
- Calcium 24 mg
- Iron 1.3 mg
- Vitamin D 8 IU
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Banana Bread
Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots!
Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can make the bread dense instead of light and fluffy.
Add Flavor with Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor of your banana bread. Feel free to experiment!
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring your eggs and butter to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter.
Customize Your Add-ins: Get creative! Add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to make your banana bread unique.
Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the right temperature. An inaccurate oven can lead to uneven baking.
Cool Before Slicing: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. This helps prevent it from becoming soggy.
Store Properly: Keep leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness. For longer storage, freeze it!
Try healthier version of Flours: Experiment with whole wheat flour or almond flour for a healthier twist. Just keep an eye on the moisture levels.
Don’t forget to grease your pan: We recommend lining your baking pan with parchment paper, which makes it easier to remove the bread without it sticking, though it is optional.
