Ingredients
1. Overripe Bananas
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The darker and spottier the better!
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They’re sweeter, more flavorful, and easier to mash.
2. Flour
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All-purpose flour gives the right structure.
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For a healthier twist, use half whole wheat flour.
3. Sugar
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White sugar for sweetness.
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You can substitute with coconut sugar, brown sugar, or honey.
4. Eggs
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Provide structure and help bind ingredients.
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Room temperature eggs incorporate better.
5. Butter or Oil
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Butter adds richness.
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Oil adds moisture. Use either based on preference.
6. Baking Soda
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The rising agent that gives banana bread its lift.
7. Salt
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Enhances flavor.
8. Vanilla Extract
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Deepens the aroma and adds a subtle sweetness.
Optional Add-Ins
1. Nuts
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Walnuts or pecans add crunch and nutty flavor.
2. Chocolate Chips
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For a sweeter, dessert-style loaf.
3. Cinnamon or Nutmeg
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Warm spices complement the banana perfectly.
4. Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream
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For an extra moist and rich loaf.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
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350°F (175°C) is ideal.
Step 2: Prepare Your Loaf Pan
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Use a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan.
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Grease with butter or line with parchment paper.
Step 3: Mash the Bananas
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Use a fork or potato masher.
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About 1 ½ to 2 cups mashed banana is ideal.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
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In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed banana, melted butter or oil, eggs, sugar, and vanilla.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
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In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, and salt.
Step 6: Fold Together
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Add the dry mix into the wet ingredients.
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Stir gently—don’t overmix.
Step 7: Add Optional Mix-Ins
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Stir in chocolate chips, nuts, or spices if using.
Step 8: Bake
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Pour the batter into your pan.
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Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
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Cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
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Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.