One-Pan Classic Banana Bread Recipe

Name: One-Pan Classic Banana Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 ripe 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

This One-Pan Classic Banana Bread Recipe is an easy and delicious way to use up overripe bananas. Perfect for breakfast or a snack!

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2025-12-29T23:46:15.370Z

This classic banana bread recipe is a family favorite and has been passed down for generations. It's moist, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Rich banana flavor with hints of vanilla and cinnamon
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert

      

The Perfect Use for Overripe Bananas

If you have bananas sitting on your counter that have turned brown and spotty, don't toss them out! These overripe bananas are the star ingredient in our One-Pan Classic Banana Bread Recipe. As bananas ripen, they become sweeter and softer, making them ideal for baking. Their natural sugars enhance the flavor of the bread, giving it that rich, delectable taste you love. Plus, using ripe bananas means you can enjoy a healthier treat, packed with nutrients.

Banana bread is a timeless recipe that evokes feelings of comfort and nostalgia. It's a fantastic way to reduce food waste while indulging in a delicious homemade treat. This recipe is incredibly versatile; you can experiment with add-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to customize it to your taste. Each loaf is unique, reflecting your personal flair while still staying true to the classic banana bread essence.

Baking Tips for the Best Banana Bread

To achieve the ultimate moist and fluffy banana bread, it's essential to use the right ripeness of bananas—look for those with a dark, speckled skin. The more ripe, the better! Additionally, be careful not to overmix your batter. Mixing just until the ingredients are combined helps maintain the bread's tender texture. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, which we want to avoid for this light and airy banana bread.

When it comes to baking time, every oven is different. Start checking your banana bread around the 45-minute mark to ensure it doesn’t overbake. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. If you find the top browning too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil to prevent burning. This small tip can make a significant difference in achieving that perfect golden crust!

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread

3 ripe 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

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch loaf pan.

Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted butter. Stir in the baking soda and salt. Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.

Finally, add the flour and mix until just combined.

Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the banana bread cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Once your banana bread is baked and cooled, the possibilities for serving are endless! Enjoy it plain for a delightful snack, or spread a thin layer of butter or cream cheese for added richness. You can also toast slices for breakfast, topped with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

This banana bread also makes a fantastic gift! Wrap it in parchment paper and tie it with a ribbon to present to friends and family. It's a thoughtful gesture that shows you care, especially during special occasions or holidays. Everyone loves a homemade treat, and banana bread is sure to be a hit!

Storage Tips

To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the freezer. It can last for up to three months! When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop slices in the toaster for a quick treat.

If you find that your banana bread is getting dry, a simple trick is to add a slice of bread to the container! The moisture from the bread will help keep your banana bread soft and delicious. This method is a great way to ensure you savor every bite of your homemade goodness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just thaw them and drain excess moisture before mashing.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate it for up to a week.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How can I tell when the banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is done.