There’s something incredibly comforting about a freshly baked banana loaf. The sweet aroma, soft crumb, and rich banana flavor make it a favorite in homes around the world.
Whether you’re using up overripe bananas or simply craving a cozy homemade treat, this banana loaf recipe is simple, reliable, and absolutely delicious.
It’s perfect for breakfast, tea time, lunchboxes, or even dessert.
Banana Loaf Recipe
This banana loaf is moist, tender, and packed with natural banana sweetness. It has a soft, fluffy texture with a lightly caramelized crust on the outside.
The recipe uses simple pantry ingredients and comes together in one bowl, making it ideal for beginners and experienced bakers alike.
You can enjoy it plain, toasted with butter, or dressed up with chocolate chips or nuts. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup melted butter or oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional but recommended)
- 2–3 tbsp milk (if batter is too thick)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a standard loaf pan with butter or oil and lightly dust it with flour, or line it with parchment paper. This ensures the banana loaf doesn’t stick and comes out cleanly after baking.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork until smooth. A few small lumps are fine—they actually add texture and extra banana flavor to the loaf.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Add the melted butter (or oil), granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk everything together until well combined and slightly creamy. This step builds the base flavor of your banana loaf.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This helps distribute the baking soda evenly so the loaf rises properly.
Step 5: Make the Batter
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Fold gently using a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix—this is key to keeping the loaf soft and tender. If the batter feels too thick, add 2–3 tablespoons of milk to loosen it slightly.
Step 6: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This helps the loaf set properly and makes cleaner slices.
Different Variations
- Chocolate Chip Banana Loaf – Add ½ cup chocolate chips to the batter
- Walnut or Pecan Banana Loaf – Add ½ cup chopped nuts for crunch
- Cinnamon Swirl Banana Loaf – Swirl cinnamon sugar through the batter
- Healthy Banana Loaf – Replace sugar with honey and use whole wheat flour
- Peanut Butter Banana Loaf – Add 2–3 tbsp peanut butter to the batter
Why This Banana Loaf Recipe Works So Well
This recipe balances moisture, sweetness, and structure perfectly.
The combination of ripe bananas and both white and brown sugar gives depth of flavor, while the fat from butter or oil keeps the loaf soft for days.
It’s forgiving, easy to customize, and doesn’t require any fancy equipment—just a bowl, a spoon, and an oven.
That’s why it’s ideal for both everyday baking and special occasions.
Tips for the Perfect Banana Loaf
To get the best results, always use very ripe bananas—the darker the peel, the sweeter and more flavorful the loaf.
Avoid overmixing the batter, as that can make the loaf dense.
If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover it with foil halfway through baking.
And for extra moisture, you can brush a little honey or sugar syrup over the loaf while it’s still warm.
Banana Loaf Baking Time & Temperature Guide
| Oven Temperature | Loaf Size | Baking Time |
|---|---|---|
| 175°C / 350°F | Standard loaf | 50–60 min |
| 175°C / 350°F | Mini loaves | 25–30 min |
| 160°C / 320°F | Deep loaf pan | 60–70 min |
| 180°C / 356°F | Small loaf pan | 40–45 min |
Conclusion
This banana loaf recipe is simple, reliable, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you enjoy it plain, with butter, or dressed up with chocolate or nuts, it’s a timeless bake that never disappoints.
Perfect for breakfast, tea time, or gifting, this loaf brings warmth and comfort with every slice.
Once you try it, it will quickly become one of your go-to baking recipes.