Banana Bread

8 servings Total: 1 h 20 m Beginner
Banana Bread
A popular bread especially when bananas are going brown, this simple banana bread uses ripe bananas, sugar, and butter to create a moist, tender loaf. Very easy to make and easier to enjoy.

Ingredients

  • 3 large ripe bananas
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 4 tbsp butter or margarine, melted and cooled
  • 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp baking soda

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Lightly grease a loaf pan and set aside.
  2. In a bowl, mash the bananas. You should have at least one cup. Beat in the sugar, then the egg and butter until well combined.
  3. In another bowl, stir together flour, salt, and baking soda; add to the banana mixture and stir until all the dry ingredients are moistened. Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  4. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my banana bread dense or gummy?

A: Make sure your bananas are very ripe (heavily spotted or brown) and don't overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Stir just until the flour is moistened.

Q: How do I know when it's done?

A: Insert a toothpick into the center at 55 minutes. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.

Tips and Techniques

The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. If you have extra ripe bananas, peel and freeze them for future banana bread baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • butter or margarine: vegetable oil or coconut oil
  • sugar: brown sugar

Equipment Needed

  • 9x5-inch loaf pan
  • mixing bowls
  • potato masher or fork
  • toothpick for testing doneness