This Banana Bread Recipe with Brown Sugar is a simple and delicious way to use overripe bananas. The combination of mashed bananas and brown sugar creates a moist, flavorful loaf with a rich, caramel-like sweetness. With just a few basic ingredients—ripe bananas, brown sugar, butter, eggs, and flour—you can easily whip up this comforting treat.
Mixing bowls For combining the wet and dry ingredients.
Fork or Potato Masher To mash the bananas.
Measuring cups and spoons To measure your ingredients accurately.
9x5-inch loaf pan For baking the banana bread.
Whisk For mixing dry ingredients like flour, baking soda, and salt.
Ingredients
1/2cupunsalted butter
1cupbrown sugar
2large eggs
1teaspoonvanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
Mash the bananas in a large bowl and mix in melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt, then fold into the banana mixture.
Add optional nuts or chocolate chips, if desired, and mix until combined.
Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 60-70 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool before serving.
Notes
Bananas: The riper the bananas, the better! Overripe bananas (with brown spots) will give the bread the sweetest flavor and best texture.
Measuring Flour: Be sure to measure the flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. Too much flour can make the bread dense.
Butter: You can substitute the butter with vegetable oil if preferred, but butter will give the bread a richer flavor.
Baking Time: All ovens vary, so start checking for doneness at around 55 minutes by inserting a toothpick. If it comes out clean, the bread is done. If it’s still wet, continue baking and check every 5 minutes.
Mix-ins: If you choose to add chocolate chips, nuts, or other ingredients, be sure to fold them in gently to avoid overmixing the batter.
Storage: Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly and freeze it for up to 3 months.
Optional Spice: If desired, you can add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy, spiced flavor that complements the sweetness of the bananas.
Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing the batter can result in dense bread. Stir until just combined for the lightest, fluffiest texture.