The key to unforgettable banana bread lies in its texture—achieving that perfectly Moist Banana Bread everyone loves. With this recipe, you’ll learn the simple steps to create a loaf that’s not only moist but also bursting with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this easy-to-follow recipe guarantees consistently delicious results that will have your family and friends asking for more. Let’s get baking!
There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked banana bread filling your home. This timeless treat is a favorite for its rich flavor and versatile nature, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an anytime snack.
Moist Banana Bread Recipe
Ingredients For Moist Banana Bread Recipe
Creating the perfect moist banana bread starts with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a comprehensive list to ensure your banana bread turns out delectably moist and flavorful:
Dry Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups (240 grams)
Provides the structure for the bread. You can substitute with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture. - Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon
Helps the bread rise and become light and fluffy. - Salt: ½ teaspoon
Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients. - Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon (optional)
Adds a warm, spicy note to the bread.
Wet Ingredients
- Ripe Bananas: 3 large, mashed (about 1 ½ to 1 ¾ cups)
The star ingredient that brings natural sweetness and moisture. - Granulated Sugar: ¾ cup (150 grams)
Sweetens the bread. You can reduce to ½ cup for a less sweet version or use brown sugar for a deeper flavor. - Light Brown Sugar: ¼ cup (50 grams) (optional)
Adds extra moisture and a subtle caramel flavor. - Large Eggs: 2, beaten
Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the bread’s structure. - Unsalted Butter: ½ cup (113 grams), melted and slightly cooled
Keeps the bread moist and adds richness. You can substitute with vegetable oil for a dairy-free version. - Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
Enhances the overall flavor profile of the bread.
Optional Add-Ins
Customize your banana bread by adding one or more of the following:
- Chopped Walnuts or Pecans: ½ cup (50 grams)
Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. - Chocolate Chips: ½ cup (90 grams)
For a sweet, chocolaty twist. - Dried Cranberries or Raisins: ½ cup (75 grams)
Introduces a chewy texture and tartness. - Shredded Coconut: ½ cup (45 grams)
Offers a tropical flair and additional moisture.
Tools You’ll Need
Before you start, gather the following kitchen tools to make the baking process smooth and efficient:
- Mixing Bowls: At least two (one large, one medium)
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Whisk and Spatula
- Loaf Pan: 9×5-inch size, preferably non-stick or lined with parchment paper
- Cooling Rack
- Electric Mixer: Optional, for easier mixing of batter
Ingredient Tips for Maximum Moisture
- Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more moist your bread will be.
- Do Not Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to prevent the bread from becoming dense.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients can significantly enhance the flavor and texture of your banana bread.
Directions For Moist Banana Bread Recipe
Follow these detailed instructions to create a perfectly moist banana bread that’s rich in flavor and irresistibly soft:
Preheat Your Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray. Alternatively, line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Prepare the Wet Ingredients
- Peel and mash the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl until smooth. A few small lumps are fine for added texture.
- Add the following to the mashed bananas:
- Granulated sugar (¾ cup)
- Brown sugar (¼ cup, optional)
- Melted butter (½ cup)
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
- Beaten eggs (2 large)
- Use a whisk or fork to mix these ingredients until fully combined and smooth.
Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together:
- All-purpose flour (2 cups)
- Baking soda (1 teaspoon)
- Salt (½ teaspoon)
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon, optional)
- Make sure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed to ensure a consistent texture in your bread.
Mix the Batter
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients.
- Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold the mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the bread dense.
- If adding optional ingredients (e.g., nuts, chocolate chips, or raisins), fold them in at this stage.
Transfer to the Loaf Pan
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use the spatula to spread it evenly.
- Tap the pan gently on the countertop to release any air bubbles.
Bake the Banana Bread
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven on the center rack.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- If the top begins to brown too quickly, tent the bread loosely with aluminum foil after 30–40 minutes.
Moist Banana Bread Recipe
Equipment
- Loaf pan A 9x5-inch loaf pan for baking the banana bread.
- Mixing bowls One large bowl for wet ingredients and one medium bowl for dry ingredients.
- Whisk or Fork To mix the wet ingredients and mash the bananas.
- Measuring cups and spoons For accurate measurements of ingredients like flour, sugar, and baking soda.
- Rubber Spatula or Wooden Spoon For gently folding the wet and dry ingredients together.
Ingredients
- 3 cup Ripe Bananas
- ¾ cup Granulated Sugar
- ¼ cup Brown Sugar
- ½ cup Unsalted Butter
- 2 large Eggs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
- Mash the bananas in a large bowl, then mix in melted butter, sugars, eggs, and vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed, then fold in optional add-ins.
- Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool before slicing.
Notes
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and moister the bread will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots or even fully black skin.
- Avoid Overmixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in a dense, tough texture.
- Bake Time May Vary: Oven temperatures vary, so start checking your banana bread at 50 minutes with a toothpick or cake tester. If it comes out clean, the bread is done.
- Add-ins are Optional: You can experiment with add-ins like chocolate chips, walnuts, or dried fruits. Just be sure to fold them in gently to maintain the bread’s moisture.
- Storage: Allow the banana bread to cool completely before storing. Wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.
- Adjust Sweetness: You can reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet bread, especially if your bananas are extra ripe.
- Grease the Pan Well: Ensure the loaf pan is greased or lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This makes for easier removal once baked.
Tips for Moist Banana Bread
Achieving the perfect moist banana bread requires a few key techniques and considerations. Follow these tips to ensure your banana bread turns out irresistibly moist and flavorful every time:
1. Use Overripe Bananas
- Choose bananas that are heavily spotted or almost black. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and moister your bread will be.
- If your bananas aren’t ripe yet, speed up the process by placing them in a paper bag or baking them at 300°F (150°C) for 15–20 minutes.
2. Measure Ingredients Accurately
- Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure precise measurements.
- Avoid packing flour into the cup; instead, spoon it in and level it off with a knife to prevent a dense loaf.
3. Don’t Overmix the Batter
- Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can make the bread tough and less moist.
4. Add Moisture-Enhancing Ingredients
- Incorporate ingredients like brown sugar, Greek yogurt, or sour cream for added moisture and richness.
- Substituting oil for butter can also make the bread softer and more moist.
5. Bake at the Right Temperature
- Ensure your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C) and bake on the center rack for even heat distribution.
- Use an oven thermometer if you suspect your oven’s temperature may be inaccurate.
6. Check for Doneness Properly
- Insert a toothpick or skewer into the center of the bread. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If it’s wet, bake for an additional 5–10 minutes and check again.
7. Tent with Foil if Necessary
- If the top of the bread starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil about halfway through baking to prevent over-browning.
Conclusion
Banana bread holds a special place in many hearts, and this recipe ensures that your loaf will be remembered for its irresistible flavor and perfectly moist texture. With its natural sweetness, tender crumb, and delightful aroma, this moist banana bread is the ultimate comfort food. It’s a versatile treat that works as a breakfast staple, a mid-afternoon snack, or a dessert that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Using everyday ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a loaf that’s as delicious as it is heartwarming. Whether you prefer a classic version or enjoy experimenting with add-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits, this recipe provides the perfect base to make it uniquely yours. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter.
We’d love for you to try this recipe in your own kitchen and experience the joy of homemade banana bread. Share your thoughts, tweaks, or favorite additions in the comments. Hearing from you helps us create even better recipes for you to enjoy.
If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to check out other delicious baking ideas on our website. From moist cakes to quick breads, we’ve got something to satisfy every craving. And don’t keep this goodness to yourself—share your banana bread creations with friends and family on social media. Tag us with your photos and let us celebrate your baking success together!
I’m Priscilla Swahn, a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutritional sciences. With over a decade of experience in holistic nutrition, I specialize in creating delicious keto recipes to help you enjoy a healthy lifestyle. On iKetoMom, you’ll find a variety of recipes for every meal—hearty breakfasts, satisfying lunches, mouthwatering dinners, indulgent desserts, and refreshing drinks. My recipes make keto living easy and enjoyable for the whole family. Featured in EatingWell and MindBodyGreen, I also collaborate with health centers and corporate companies to share my expertise. Join me and discover the joy of keto cooking!