Our go-to banana bread that's become a much-loved classic (2024)

Why does some banana bread turn out dry?

Along with the butter, milk and eggs, the ripe bananas provide moisture in this recipe. If the bananas are too small the bread may turn out a bit dry. This recipe asks for 2 medium ripe bananas, which is about 1 1/4 cups when mashed. For soft and tender banana bread, always measure your flour exactly and don’t over mix when stirring. Like muffins, you should only stir the mixture until just combined. You want your banana bread batter to spread easily in your prepared loaf pan. Then cook until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. And remember, if it turns out a bit dry, just slather it with extra butter!

While some recipes use sour cream, vegetable oil, extra softened butter or plain Greek yoghurt to ensure a moist banana bread, this ultimate banana bread recipe is tested to make sure it doesn't require any sour cream or other products to achieve a balanced loaf. Trust us, it's good. You'll want to eat it straight from the loaf pan. If you have the patience to let it cool, enjoy it warm or at room temperature.

Can you put too much banana in banana bread?

Like all cake recipes, measurements reign supreme. Someone has worked out the exact ratio of wet to dry ingredients so you don’t have to. With the best banana bread there is a little wiggle room when it comes to the size of the bananas. Slightly bigger ones are okay, but too many extra mashed bananas may make the bread a little dense. If you really love your bananas, serve extra, sliced, on top!

Is banana bread healthy?

Banana bread can run the gamut from highly decadent (with sour cream, chocolate chips and loads of butter) to low fat, vegan and sugar-free (sans chocolate chips). This recipe sits in the middle. It really is our best banana bread recipe. Yes, you do get the health benefits of eating mashed bananas – including fibre and potassium, but this isn’t exactly health food. If you're looking for banana bread recipes that cater to different diets and eating requirements check out these banana bread recipes for everyone.

Why do you use overripe bananas?

During the ripening process the natural starch in bananas converts to sugar, which not only makes them sweeter, but also enhances the banana flavour. Older bananas are also softer and easier to mash, which is why they're often listed among banana bread ingredients. Use bananas that have deep brown and black spots on them but avoid if they are showing signs of mold. Alongside the sweet bananas, you'll only need 2/3 cup of brown sugar (you can use light brown sugar or dark brown sugar) to balance the flavours. Trust us, this is the best banana bread ever. The biggest challenge? Letting this freshly baked banana bread cool in the pan. It really is a super moist, amazing recipe with its step by step instructions. Better make it a double batch!

Are there other types of fruit bread?

Banana bread is one of a group called ‘quick breads”. This means they are leavened by baking powder or bicarbonate of soda instead of yeast (eggs are also an important part of this process). Try playing around with raspberry, pear and strawberry quick breads. If you like, you can use add a splash of vanilla extract too. And, you can bolster your bread by adding chopped walnuts or chopped pecans (or dare we suggest dark chocolate?) too. We have plenty of fruit baking recipes on taste.com.au to spark inspiration. And, if you're jazzing things up for a tea party, you could turn this easy banana bread recipe into something extra special with a cream cheese frosting. Just allow it to cool first.

To make this classic banana bread rise, we've used self-raising flour, but you could use a combination of baking soda and flour if you're running short. (Here's our guide on how much baking soda to use). Of course, you can use gluten free flour too.

How long can I store banana bread?

This banana bread will keep in an airtight container out of direct sunlight for up to 3 days. Alternatively, place in an airtight container, then label, date and freeze for up to 1 month. Place in the fridge overnight to thaw before eating.

View More