One-Pan Classic Banana Bread Recipe

Name: One-Pan Classic Banana Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 overripe bananas, mashed; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 3/4 cup sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Enjoy the comforting flavors of homemade banana bread with this easy one-pan recipe.

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2025-12-28T18:07:07.500Z

This classic banana bread recipe is the perfect way to use up overripe bananas. It's easy to make, requires only one pan, and is sure to become a family favorite!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich banana flavor with a hint of cinnamon
Moist texture that stays fresh for days
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert

      

The Joy of Baking Banana Bread

Banana bread is a beloved classic that has earned its place in kitchens around the world. The beauty of this one-pan recipe lies in its simplicity and the delightful aroma that fills your home as it bakes. Each bite brings warmth and nostalgia, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or cozy mornings at home. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with a pat of butter, this banana bread is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

One of the best things about banana bread is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits. This means you can make each loaf uniquely yours, ensuring that it remains exciting and delicious every time you bake it. Plus, using overripe bananas not only enhances the flavor but also helps reduce food waste, making this recipe both delicious and environmentally friendly.

Baking Tips for Perfect Banana Bread

To achieve the best results with your banana bread, start by using very ripe bananas. The more brown spots, the better! These overripe bananas are sweeter and add a rich, natural flavor to your bread. If you don’t have ripe bananas on hand, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a brown paper bag for a day or two.

Another key tip is to avoid overmixing the batter. Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, whereas a gentle hand will yield a moist and fluffy texture. Lastly, keep an eye on the baking time—ovens can vary, so check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time to avoid overbaking.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread

3 overripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
3/4 cup sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour

Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mash the bananas with a fork. Stir in the melted butter. Add the baking soda and salt, then mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Finally, stir in the flour until just combined.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious banana bread warm or at room temperature!

Storing Your Banana Bread

Once your banana bread is baked and cooled, you might be wondering how to store it for maximum freshness. To keep it moist, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. Stored this way, your banana bread will stay fresh for up to a week at room temperature.

If you want to enjoy your banana bread for a longer time, consider freezing it. Simply slice the bread and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This way, you can pull out a slice whenever you crave a treat, and it will stay delicious for up to three months.

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread can be enjoyed in many ways! Serve it plain for a simple snack, or dress it up with a spread of butter or cream cheese for a delicious breakfast treat. For a more indulgent option, drizzle some honey or maple syrup over a warm slice, or top it with fresh fruit like berries or slices of banana for added flavor and nutrition.

If you're planning to serve this banana bread at a gathering, consider pairing it with a cup of coffee or tea. The rich flavors of the bread complement warm beverages beautifully, making it a perfect addition to brunch or afternoon tea. Your guests will appreciate the effort you've put into creating a delightful experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Wrap the bread in plastic wrap or foil and store at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze banana bread?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for sugar?

You can use honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute, but be sure to adjust the liquid content accordingly.