World's Best Banana Bread (Print-Friendly Version)
Rich, moist banana bread packed with flavor and warm spices. Delicious warm or cooled with a tender crumb.
# Ingredients You’ll Need:
→ Banana Bread Base
01 -
3 to 4 ripe bananas, mashed
02 -
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
03 -
1 cup granulated sugar
04 -
2 large eggs
05 -
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
06 -
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
07 -
1 teaspoon baking soda
08 -
1/2 teaspoon salt
09 -
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
11 -
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
# How to Make It:
01 -
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper to facilitate release after baking.
02 -
In a large mixing bowl, use a fork or potato masher to thoroughly mash the ripe bananas until smooth with minimal lumps.
03 -
Stir melted unsalted butter into the mashed bananas, then add granulated sugar and mix until the mixture is homogenous and slightly lightened in color.
04 -
Beat in eggs, adding one at a time and fully incorporating each before adding the next. Mix in pure vanilla extract.
05 -
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until evenly blended.
06 -
Gradually fold the dry mixture into the banana mixture, mixing gently until no visible streaks of flour remain. Do not overmix.
07 -
If using, fold in chopped walnuts or pecans, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
08 -
Transfer batter to prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Gently tap the pan on the countertop to release large air bubbles.
09 -
Bake in preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
# Extra Tips:
01 -
For optimal taste, choose overripe bananas with brown speckles. Toasting the nuts before adding will intensify their aroma and flavor.