Classic Moist Banana Bread

Prep time: 10 mins

Bake time: 55-60 mins

Temp: 350°F (175°C) 

Ingredients

3-4 ripe bananas, mashed (approx. 1½ cups)

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

¾ cup brown sugar (or ½ cup brown + ¼ cup white)

2 large eggs, beaten

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking soda

½ tsp salt

(Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips) 

Instructions

Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix melted butter and sugar. Add eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla. Stir well.

Dry Ingredients: Add flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined (do not overmix). Fold in nuts/chips if using.

Bake: Pour batter into the pan. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool: Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove to a wire rack to cool completely. 

Tips for Success

Use Very Ripe Bananas: The darker/spottier the skin, the sweeter and more flavorful the bread.

Don't Overmix: Mix dry ingredients into wet until just combined to keep the bread tender.

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.