Banana bread is undeniably one of the most popular baked goods worldwide. Loved by people of all ages, this classic treat has stood the test of time. Its soft, moist texture combined with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas make it irresistible to many.
Apart from its deliciousness, another reason for its popularity is its versatility. You can enjoy banana bread for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert. Whether it’s served plain, toasted, or with a generous spread of butter, it never fails to hit the spot.
While banana bread is undeniably delectable, it also offers several health benefits. It is a great source of dietary fiber, potassium, and essential vitamins such as vitamin C and vitamin B6. The high fiber content aids digestion and promotes a feeling of satiety. Plus, bananas are known for their natural mood-boosting properties, thanks to the presence of tryptophan, which the body converts into serotonin.
When preparing banana bread, you can make it even healthier by using whole wheat flour or adding nutritious ingredients like nuts, seeds, or dark chocolate chips. This way, you can enjoy a guilt-free treat that satisfies your taste buds and nourishes your body.
Banana bread is excellent for meal preparation and ideal for those on the go. You can bake a loaf in advance and store it in an airtight container for several days. It stays moist and delicious, making it a convenient snack or breakfast option for busy mornings or when you need a quick energy boost throughout the day.
Moreover, banana bread can easily be frozen for longer storage. Slice it into individual portions, wrap them tightly, and place them in the freezer. This allows you to enjoy a delightful slice of banana bread whenever you desire, without the need for extensive preparation.
In conclusion, with its widespread popularity, health benefits, and versatility, this tasty bread remains an all-time favorite. Whether you are a seasoned baker or just starting to explore the joys of baking, this timeless recipe is sure to bring warmth and joy to your kitchen and the hearts of those who enjoy it.
Ingredients
- 140 g softened butter (1/2 cup)
- 140 g caster sugar (approx. 3/4 cup)
- 2 eggs large, beaten
- 140 g flour (approx. 1 cup)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 bananas mashed
- 50 g icing sugar (approx. 1/2 cup)
- 2-3 tsp water
- Banana chips for decoration
Instructions
- Heat oven to 356°F/320°F fan/gas 4.
- Butter a 2lb loaf tin and line the base and sides with baking parchment.
- Cream 140g softened butter and 140g caster sugar until light and fluffy, then slowly add 2 beaten large eggs with a little of the 140g flour.
- Fold in the remaining flour, 1 tsp baking powder, and 2 mashed bananas.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared tin and bake for about 50 mins, or until cooked through. Check the loaf at 5-min intervals from around 30-40 mins in the oven by testing it with a skewer (it should be able to be inserted and removed cleanly), as the time may vary depending on the shape of your loaf tin.
- Cool in the tin for 10 mins, then remove to a wire rack.
- Mix 50g icing sugar with 2-3 tsp water to make a runny icing.
- Drizzle the icing across the top of the cake and decorate with a handful of banana chips.
Not bad at all—my family ate it fast lol. I did reduce sugar a bit and it wasn’t as sweet, which I prefer. Would make again!
This banana bread was amazing! So fluffy and delicious. Will definitely make it again!
Is there a way to make this without eggs? Allergies, you know. I heard you can use applesauce instead?
This banana bread is a hit at my house! My kids loved it! 😍
Banana bread good!! I put chocolate chips too and it was yummm! Will make again for sure.
Yumm!!! My whole family loved it, especially with the banana chips. Perfect for breakfast.
Mine didn’t get “light and fluffy” in the creaming step, it looked kinda grainy, but it still baked up fine. Maybe my butter was too soft/too melted?
Bah! Banana bread is overrated. Prefer chocolate cake any day!
It would be really cool if you also included regular measuring as well as the weight. I don’t own kitchen scales and right now, I can’t afford to buy them. Thank you.
I also live in America and have never been very good with the metric system.
Thank you for your comment! We added measurement in cups. Please let us know how it turned out. 😊
It turned out okay, but I think I added too much sugar. Next time I’ll cut back on that.
I don’t know, my loaf just collapsed. Did I do something wrong? Maybe too much butter?
I dunno, I feel like it could use some chocolate chips. Adding banana chips is cool tho. Just my opinion.
Good basic recipe. I subbed brown sugar for caster and it still worked. Next time I’ll add a pinch of cinnamon because why not.
I just mix everything in one bowl without following the instructions 😅 and it worked out great! Who needs rules?
I made this for my kids and they love it! So easy. Thanks! 🍌
This recipe is way too basic. Can’t believe people like it. 🙄
Why do you need banana chips? Just use the mashed bananas. Seems silly.
Super simple! Just mix and bake. Frustrating but worth it in the end.
This recipe is great, but it needs more bananas. I added a third banana and it was way better. Just my opinion!
I found a banana bread recipe online that didn’t need butter. Was pretty good! Not sure why you need it here.
Butter makes it richer and fluffier! I wouldn’t skip it.
SO GOOD!!! My whole family loved it, even my picky eater. 10/10 would recommend! 🍌
I tried makin dis once and it came out all mushy. Followed the instructshuns but I guess I did sumthin wrong. Anyone else have this problem?
Maybe your bananas were too ripe or you added too much liquid? I had mushy bread once too, gotta watch that water! Good luck next time!
This turned out sooo moist! I baked mine the full 50 mins and the skewer came out clean like the recipe said. The banana chips on top are such a nice touch.
I tried it but it came out super dense and didn’t rise at all. I followed the recipe! What did I do wrong?
Maybe it was the bananas? If they were too ripe, that could change the texture. Just a thought!
Why do you need icing on banana bread? That’s just wrong. Is it even a dessert now? 🤔
Yum! I made this last week and now I’m making it again. Simple and tasty!
I tried it too, but it came out kinda dry. Think maybe I overbaked it? Not sure if I’ll make it again.
I totally agree! This banana bread is my go-to recipe now! Can’t believe how easy it is!
I didn’t have baking powder, so I used baking soda. It turned out pretty good still!
Why use icing sugar? Might as well just eat sugar straight! Seems weird.
Yummm! Banana bread is life! Gonna make more for the weekend!!
Not sure why everyone loves this. It was okay but I’ve had better. Maybe I just expected too much?
I think it’s a classic for a reason! Maybe you had a different style of banana bread? It’s all about personal taste, I guess. Give it another shot!
Everyone’s taste is different. I found it simple but good! But hey, if you’re not into it, that’s cool. Everyone loves different things.
Meh, not what I expected. I might stick to buying bread at the store. 🍞
The icing sugar + water drizzle is a game changer. I was worried it would run off, but it set nicely and made it look bakery-level.
This turned out so moist and fragrant! I baked mine closer to 55 mins and the skewer came out clean. Love the banana chip crunch on top too.
I like that it’s not overly complicated. I used dark bananas because that’s what I had and it still tasted great. Next time I’ll probably add a pinch of cinnamon though.
Totally agree—banana bread doesn’t need to be a whole science project. Love that it worked with dark bananas!
Dark bananas are basically the cheat code 😄 I’ve done this with spotty ones and it’s always more flavorful. Cinnamon is a great idea too.
I tried this recipe and it was a total disaster! The loaf turned out dense and didn’t rise at all. What went wrong?
So easy and honestly better than the banana bread I usually make. The icing is a nice touch, not too sweet.
Thanks for the recipe! It was easy and quick to make. Your instructions helped! 👍
This banana bread was amazing! So moist and sweet! My family loved it.