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| Meta Title | Best Banana Bread Recipe (Video) - Gemma’s Bigger Bolder Baking |
| Meta Description | Try my Best Banana Bread recipe with 3 ripe bananas and easy secret tricks—chef-perfected & fan-approved with 1500+ reviews. Moist and tasty! |
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| Boilerpipe Text | This post may contain affiliate links. Please see
my full disclosure
for details.
Hi Bold Bakers!
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE:
Â
This is theÂ
Best Banana Bread Recipe
,
perfected
for flavor, moisture, and ease. With
a full cup
of ripe bananas and simple ingredients, it’s a
fan-favored
recipe that guarantees a delicious, comforting loaf every time to seasoned bakers and beginners. Plus, it’s been
praised in 1500+ reviews
across multiple platforms!
Incredibly Moist & Soft:
Thanks to my secret ingredient oats and the secret trick of using aluminum foil, your banana bread stays tender and flavorful.
Banana Flavor at its Best:
Packed with 3 ripe bananas, it’s bursting with sweet, rich flavor.
Easy to Make:
A prep of
only 20 minutes
with simple steps that anyone can follow, ensuring a perfect loaf every time.
Fan-Favored & Chef-Perfected:
Tested and perfected to deliver a moist, flavorful loaf that fans rave about.
If you’re anything like me, you probably have a cherished family banana bread recipe you keep on hand. But no more frantic searches for that forgotten scrap of paper! This recipe is your go-to, fail-proof solution for perfectly moist, flavorful banana bread.
And if you’re craving a new twist on this classic, I have a whole collection of variations you can try:
Mia’s Family Banana Nut Bread
The Fastest Way to Make Banana Bread
The Softest Sour Cream Banana Bread
The Essential Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
Warm & Comforting Pumpkin Banana Bread
Homemade Banana Bread Muffins
Cream Cheese Swirl Banana Bread
Must-Try Blueberry Banana Bread
3 Incredible Ways To Use Banana Bread
Incredible Banana Bread French Toast
Banana Bread Brownies
Elegant Banana Bread Trifle
Healthy Chocolate Banana Bread
With years of banana bread baking experience, I’ve perfected the ultimate recipe by combining the best techniques and flavors. Keep reading for my tips to assure you a flawless loaf every time.
Bold Bakers Loved This!
“I’ve cooked banana bread for over 50 years. This is the best recipe to date! I’ve made this specific recipe for the past couple of years. It’s my “welcome to the community” gift to new neighbors who have ALWAYS asked for the recipe.” — Rita
” As I write this, I am waiting for my banana bread to cool down as it’s still wrapped in foil. I have never had much luck with banana bread recipes until I tried yours and finally got a perfect loaf! That is now my only banana bread recipe!! ” — Lisa
“I can guarantee this is the best banana bread you’ve ever had and so easy to make. It’s my go-to recipe and my husband asks for me to make this all the time!” — Sarah P.
IMPORTANT NOTE:Â
This recipe was updated and improved on 12/21/2024, to include
NEW STEP-BY-STEP photography
, explanations and substitutes of key ingredients, make ahead and storage instructions, mix-ins and variations, answers to the latest frequently asked questions, and Pro Chef Tips.Â
Watch The Recipe Video!
Prep Time
20
minutes
Cook Time
55
minutes
Total Time
1
hour
15
minutes
Try my Best Banana Bread recipe with 3 ripe bananas and easy secret tricks—chef-perfected & fan-approved with 1500+ reviews. Moist and tasty!
Author:
Gemma Stafford
Servings:
8
people
Ingredients
1½
cups
(7 ½ oz/ 213 g) all-purpose flour
Âľ
cup
(2ÂĽ oz/64 g) quick cooking oats
â…”
cup
(5 oz/142 g) granulated sugar
2
teaspoons
baking powder
ÂĽ
teaspoon
baking soda
2
teaspoons
cinnamon
1
teaspoon
salt
1
cup (8 oz/225 g)
mashed banana
(3 small bananas)
2
large eggs, room temperature
â…“
cup
(2 ½ fl oz/71 ml) whole milk
ÂĽ
cup
(2 fl oz/57 ml) vegetable oil
1½
teaspoons
vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl combine the flour, oats, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon and salt.
In a separate large bowl, finely mash the bananas with a fork. Whisk in eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla.
Pour the dry ingredients into the bowl with the wet ingredients and mix by hand just until combined. Do not over mix as this can make the banana bread tough.
Pour the banana bread batter into the pan and bake for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick or cake tester comes out clean. While the bread cools I like to cover the warm bread with foil which moisten and softens the bread.
Enjoy as is with a cup of tea. Store at room temperature wrapped in cling wrap for up to 3 days. It also freezes really well for up to 4 weeks.
Recipe Notes
Don’t use green, under-ripe bananas!
It is best to use brown, older bananas for a much sweeter and more pronounced banana flavor. Plus they’re way easier to mash.
Don’t mix all the wet ingredients and bananas together!
Speaking of mashing, mash the bananas first, then add the other wet ingredients. Mashing the bananas in the bowl by themselves first will allow you to get them much smoother and mushier. That is harder to do once the oil, milk, etc. are in there.
Don’t just dump all of the dry ingredients into the wet!
Always mix the dry ingredients in a separate bowl before adding them to the wet ingredients. By doing this you are ensuring your raising agents, spices, and salt will all be evenly mixed before the next step.
Do NOT over-beat your batter!
Gently mix the batter together gently until just combined. Leaving lumps is totally fine. Over-mixing means you can develop the gluten in the flour resulting in much tougher bread. Nobody wants a tough slice.
Don’t forget the parchment paper!
Always line your loaf pan with parchment paper. This is such a heavy, large loaf and you just want to buy yourself extra insurance that it will easily pop right out of the loaf pan.
Do not open the oven while baking!
Resist the urge to open that oven while baking!!! Opening the door in the first 20 minutes of baking lets out the steam and hot air and can cause the banana bread to fall leaving you with a flat loaf.
Table of Contents
What is Banana Bread
?
Tools You Need
Key Ingredients and Substitutes
How to Make the Best Banana Bread Recipe
Gemma’s Pro Chef Tips
Make Ahead and Storage Instructions
Banana Bread Mix-ins and Variations
How To Make Banana Bread Moist
How to Make Gluten-Free Banana Bread
FAQs
More Quick Bread Recipes
What is Banana Bread?
Banana bread is a moist, sweet, and soft cake-like loaf made from ripe bananas. It’s a beloved treat, often enjoyed as a snack or breakfast, and can be customized with add-ins like nuts, chocolate, or spices.
Main ingredient:
 Ripe bananas for natural sweetness.
Texture:
Soft, moist, and slightly dense.
Versatile:
Can include nuts, chocolate chips, or spices.
Flavor:
Sweet, with a rich banana taste.
Baking method:
Easy to make by mixing wet and dry ingredients, then baking in a loaf pan.
Appeal:
Offers a feeling of warmth and comfort, perfect for satisfying cravings.
Fun Fact about Banana Bread:
Banana bread,
originally a savory dish
, transformed into the sweet, moist loaf we enjoy today in the 1930s. Thanks to the invention of baking soda and powder, it became easier to make without yeast, and the recipe evolved into the beloved treat we know now!
Tools You Need for Making Banana Bread
9Ă—5 loaf pan
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls
Measuring spoonsÂ
Measuring cups
Measuring jugs
Whisk
 or fork
Spatula
Key Ingredients and Substitutes
All-purpose Flour
Also known as “AP” or “plain flour”,  it has a 9-11% protein content to provide structure and texture to the bread.
Substitute:Â
Replace up to 50% of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber or use aÂ
gluten-free flour blend
 orÂ
Easy Almond Flour Baking Mix
 for a gluten-free option.
Quick Cooking Oats
Adds texture, moisture, and a slight chewiness.
Substitute:Â
I don’t recommend using rolled oats as they don’t really cook out. Do NOT use steel-cut oats.
You may try instant oats, oat flour, almond flour, whole wheat flour, ground flax seeds, or chia seeds for rolled oats starting at a 1:1 ratio. Note to adjust the wet ingredients to get the same consistency as the recipe.
Granulated Sugar
Sweetens the bread and helps with browning.
Substitute:Â
Honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener, or other sugar-free options such as stevia from myÂ
Sugar Substitute Chart
 for a sugar-free option.
Baking Powder
Leavens the bread and helps it rise.
Baking Soda
Helps with leavening and provides lift to the bread.
Cinnamon
Adds warmth and flavor to the bread.
Substitute:
Nutmeg,Â
mixed spices
 orÂ
pumpkin pie spice
 for a different flavor profile.
Salt
Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Bananas
Adds natural sweetness, moisture, and flavor.
Substitute:
Applesauce
or mashed avocado for moisture, but will alter the flavor.
Eggs
Bind the ingredients and helps with rising.
Substitute:
Flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoon water), unsweetened yogurt, or other options from myÂ
Egg Substitute Chart
.
Whole Milk
Adds moisture and richness.
Substitute:Â
Any dairy-free milk such asÂ
coconut milk
,Â
almond milk
,Â
oat milk
, orÂ
cashew milk
. OrÂ
yogurt
,Â
buttermilk,
 orÂ
sour cream
 for a softer texture.
Vegetable Oil
Adds moisture and richness to the bread.
Substitute:Â
You can also use melted butter, ghee, cocconut oil, avocado oil, olive oil. Or unsweetened applesauce for a different flavor profile.
Vanilla Extract
Adds depth of flavor and enhances the sweetness.
Substitute:Â
Vanilla pods orÂ
Vanilla Bean PasteÂ
will also be lovely.
How to Make the Best Banana Bread Recipe
Prep
Preheat your oven to
350°F (180°C)
. Prepare a 9Ă—5 loaf pan with parchment paper.
Make the Banana Bread Batter
Mix dry ingredients:
In a medium bowl combine the flour, oats, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon and salt.
Mix wet ingredients:
 In a separate large bowl, finely mash the bananas with a fork. Whisk in eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla.
Combine:
Pour the dry ingredients into the bowl with the wet ingredients and mix by hand just until combined. Do not over mix as this can make the banana bread tough.
Bake the Best Ever Banana Bread
Pour the banana bread batter into the pan and bake for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick or cake tester comes out clean.
Serve
Enjoy as is with a cup of tea. Or level it up with
Homemade Butter
 orÂ
Keto Nut Butters
 such Â
Coconut Butter
,Â
Pecan Butter
 andÂ
Perfect Chocolate Macadamia Nut
 Butter
.
Gemma’s Pro Chef Tips
Despite the easiness of this recipe, there are in fact ways to make mistakes when whipping up a loaf. Let me break down the most common things people get wrong, so you can avoid them and sail straight to success.
Don’t use green, under-ripe bananas!
It is best to use brown, older bananas for a much sweeter and more pronounced banana flavor. Plus they’re way easier to mash.
Don’t mix all the wet ingredients and bananas together!
Speaking of mashing, mash the bananas first, then add the other wet ingredients. Mashing the bananas in the bowl by themselves first will allow you to get them much smoother and mushier. That is harder to do once the oil, milk, etc. are in there.
Don’t just dump all of the dry ingredients into the wet!
Always mix the dry ingredients in a separate bowl before adding them to the wet ingredients. By doing this you are ensuring your raising agents, spices, and salt will all be evenly mixed before the next step.
Do NOT over-beat your batter!
Gently mix the batter together gently until just combined. Leaving lumps is totally fine. Over-mixing means you can develop the gluten in the flour resulting in much tougher bread. Nobody wants a tough slice.
Don’t forget the parchment paper!
Always line your loaf pan with parchment paper. This is such a heavy, large loaf and you just want to buy yourself extra insurance that it will easily pop right out of the loaf pan.
Do not open the oven while baking!
Resist the urge to open that oven while baking!!! Opening the door in the first 20 minutes of baking lets out the steam and hot air and can cause the banana bread to fall leaving you with a flat loaf.
Make sure to check outÂ
3 Incredible Ways To Use Banana Bread
!
Make Ahead and Storage Instructions
Make-Ahead:
Prepare the batter and store it in an airtight container in the
 fridge for up to 24 hours
before baking.
Mashed overripe bananas
can be stored in theÂ
fridge
 for
1–2 days
before use.
In the
 freezer
, mashed bananas can be stored for up toÂ
3 months
.
Place in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and label with the date for easy tracking.
Thaw in theÂ
fridge
 overnight or at room temperature for a quicker thaw.
Storage:
Once baked, allow the banana bread to cool completely.
Store atÂ
room temperature
 in an airtight container for up to
3Â days
.
For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil andÂ
freeze
 for up toÂ
4 week
s: Slice the banana bread and place a piece of parchment paper between each slice to easily grab and go.
Thaw frozen banana bread overnight at room temperature before serving.
Banana Bread Mix-ins and Variations
Banana Bread Mix-Ins:
Chocolate Chips: Add semi-sweet, milk, or dark chocolate chips for a rich, indulgent flavor.
Nuts: Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds add crunch and flavor.
Dried Fruit: Try adding raisins, cranberries, or dried apricots for a fruity twist.
Shredded Coconut: Add sweetened or unsweetened coconut for texture and tropical flavor.
Peanut Butter or Nut Butters: Swirl in peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter for a creamy, nutty twist.
Marshmallows: Add mini marshmallows for a gooey, fun surprise.
Toffee or Butterscotch Chips: For a sweet caramelized flavor.
Banana Bread Variations:
Healthy Banana Bread:
Use whole wheat flour, reduce sugar, and add in ground flaxseed for a healthier version.
Gluten-Free Banana Bread
: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Vegan Banana Bread: Replace eggs with flax eggs or chia eggs, and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
Spiced Banana Bread: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for extra warmth and spice.
Pumpkin Banana Bread
: Add pumpkin puree for a fall-inspired flavor.
Maple Banana Bread: Swap in maple syrup for some of the sugar for a rich, earthy flavor.
Chocolate Banana Bread
: Add cocoa powder and chocolate chips for a decadent treat. Read on for details!
How To Make Banana Bread Moist
Use oats:
Oats help retain moisture and contribute to a chewy texture.
Opt for neutral oil:
Flavorless oils like vegetable oil ensure a soft, moist loaf.
Cover with foil:
Once your banana bread is golden brown, cover it with aluminum foil while it’s still warm. This traps steam, creating a soft, sticky top similar to gingerbread.
How to Make Gluten-Free Banana Bread
Here’s how to make a gluten-free version of banana bread:
Try ourÂ
Best Gluten-Free Banana Bread(Low Carb / Zero Added Sugar)
: A delicious alternative to traditional banana bread, swapping regular ingredients for healthier options.
Key Ingredients:
This recipe uses almond flour and coconut flour for a gluten-free base, along with monk fruit sugar for a low-sugar, low-carb twist.
Dairy-Free Option:
It’s also dairy-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.
Perfect for Healthier Eating:
Ideal for those looking to enjoy banana bread that’s both healthier and full of flavor!
This recipe does use eggs, but even the eggs in the bread can be replaced with flax eggs making the bread entirely vegan.
FAQs
Generally, one medium banana without peel measures around 120g (4oz/ 1/3 cup).
So you need around 360g (12 oz/ 1 cup) of mashed bananas.
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour in banana bread.
When it comes to whole wheat/grain flour, I suggest whole wheat/grain: all-purpose flour in a 1:1 or 1: 2 ratio, so you won’t wind up with a dense result. Because whole wheat (or grain) has bran which weighs down protein a lot to make it difficult to rise.
A good rule of thumb to keep in mind while alternating the recipe: note to hold back some liquid by using up to 3/4 in one go and adjust it accordingly to get the same consistency as the recipe.
Yes, you can reduce the sugar in banana bread.
Sugar is not just a sweetener, it’s also a great binding agent.
More importantly, sugar is added to incorporate air in the batter to make banana bread light and fluffy in texture instead of being dense. This would be sacrificed to some point if you cut back the sugar by more than a quarter.
The telltale sign for a full and properly baked banana bread is no wetness on top, firm to the touch in the center, the edge pulling away from the mold a little bit, or a toothpick inserted coming out clean.
Yes, you can bake this recipe in mini banana bread loaf pans. The baking time depends on the individual well’s size.
Yes, you can use a different size pan.
A standard 9-inch loaf pan holds up to 8 cups. If you don’t have one available, use an 8-inch square pan or a 9-inch round cake tin.
Monitor the baking time using the telltale signs listed above.
How to MakeÂ
Chocolate Banana Bread
Chocolate Chip Option:
You can add chocolate chips to any of the above recipes for a classic chocolate chip banana bread.
For True Chocoholics:
If you’re a chocoholic like me, try this Healthy Chocolate Banana Bread for something extra special!
Nourishing Ingredients:
The recipe features 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, ground flax, coconut sugar, and coconut oil, making it rich and nourishing.
Bananas for Sweetness:
The bananas provide a natural sweetness, while the chocolate chips add a satisfying crunch, making this the perfect breakfast, snack, or dessert.
Get More Quick Bread Recipes:
Strawberry Cornmeal Quick Bread
Blueberry Cream Cheese Quick Bread
Almond Flour Banana Bread Recipe
Traditional Irish Soda Bread Recipe (Brown Bread)
Gemma’s Best Ever Pumpkin Bread Recipe
IMPORTANT NOTE:Â
This recipe was updated and improved on 12/21/2024, to include
NEW STEP-BY-STEP photography
, explanations and substitutes of key ingredients, make ahead and storage instructions, mix-ins and variations, answers to the latest frequently asked questions, and Pro Chef Tips. |
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Try my Best Banana Bread recipe with 3 ripe bananas and easy secret tricks—chef-perfected & fan-approved with 1500+ reviews. Moist and tasty\!
By [Gemma Stafford](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/about-gemma/) \| Updated on
Jul 31, 2025

*This post may contain affiliate links. Please see [my full disclosure](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/bbb-privacy-policy/) for details.*
Hi Bold Bakers\!
**WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE:** *This is the **Best Banana Bread Recipe**, **perfected** for flavor, moisture, and ease. With **a full cup** of ripe bananas and simple ingredients, it’s a **fan-favored** recipe that guarantees a delicious, comforting loaf every time to seasoned bakers and beginners. Plus, it’s been **praised in 1500+ reviews** across multiple platforms\!*
- **Incredibly Moist & Soft:** Thanks to my secret ingredient oats and the secret trick of using aluminum foil, your banana bread stays tender and flavorful.
- **Banana Flavor at its Best:** Packed with 3 ripe bananas, it’s bursting with sweet, rich flavor.
- **Easy to Make:** A prep of **only 20 minutes** with simple steps that anyone can follow, ensuring a perfect loaf every time.
- **Fan-Favored & Chef-Perfected:** Tested and perfected to deliver a moist, flavorful loaf that fans rave about.
If you’re anything like me, you probably have a cherished family banana bread recipe you keep on hand. But no more frantic searches for that forgotten scrap of paper! This recipe is your go-to, fail-proof solution for perfectly moist, flavorful banana bread.
And if you’re craving a new twist on this classic, I have a whole collection of variations you can try:
- [Mia’s Family Banana Nut Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/mias-banana-nut-bread/)
- [The Fastest Way to Make Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/banana-bread-in-a-mug/)
- [The Softest Sour Cream Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/sour-cream-banana-bread/)
- [The Essential Chocolate Chip Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/chocolate-chip-banana-bread/)
- [Warm & Comforting Pumpkin Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/pumpkin-banana-bread/)
- [Homemade Banana Bread Muffins](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/banana-bread-muffins-recipe/)
- [Cream Cheese Swirl Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/cream-cheese-banana-bread/)
- [Must-Try Blueberry Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/blueberry-banana-bread-recipe/)
- [3 Incredible Ways To Use Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/banana-bread-3-ways/)
- [Incredible Banana Bread French Toast](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/banana-bread-french-toast/)
- [Banana Bread Brownies](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/banana-bread-brownies/)
- [Elegant Banana Bread Trifle](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/banana-bread-trifle-recipe/)
- [Healthy Chocolate Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/healthy-chocolate-banana-bread/)
With years of banana bread baking experience, I’ve perfected the ultimate recipe by combining the best techniques and flavors. Keep reading for my tips to assure you a flawless loaf every time.
## Bold Bakers Loved This\!
*“I’ve cooked banana bread for over 50 years. This is the best recipe to date! I’ve made this specific recipe for the past couple of years. It’s my “welcome to the community” gift to new neighbors who have ALWAYS asked for the recipe.” — Rita*
*” As I write this, I am waiting for my banana bread to cool down as it’s still wrapped in foil. I have never had much luck with banana bread recipes until I tried yours and finally got a perfect loaf! That is now my only banana bread recipe!! ” — Lisa*
*“I can guarantee this is the best banana bread you’ve ever had and so easy to make. It’s my go-to recipe and my husband asks for me to make this all the time!” — Sarah P.*
**IMPORTANT NOTE:** *This recipe was updated and improved on 12/21/2024, to include **NEW STEP-BY-STEP photography**, explanations and substitutes of key ingredients, make ahead and storage instructions, mix-ins and variations, answers to the latest frequently asked questions, and Pro Chef Tips.*
## Try These Recipes\!
[Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/sourdough-cinnamon-rolls/)
[Sheet Pan Pizza](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/sheet-pan-pizza/)
[Irish Soda Bread Muffins](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/irish-soda-bread-muffins/)
[Irish Soda Bread Scones](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/irish-soda-bread-scones/)
## Watch The Recipe Video\!
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## Best Banana Bread Recipe
4\.69 from 993 votes
[ Print Recipe](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/wprm_print/best-banana-bread-recipe)

Try my Best Banana Bread recipe with 3 ripe bananas and easy secret tricks—chef-perfected & fan-approved with 1500+ reviews. Moist and tasty\!
Author: Gemma Stafford
Servings: 8 people
- [Dessert](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/course/dessert/)
- [Fruit](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/flavors-ingredients/fruit/)
- [Oven](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/equipment/oven/)
- [Baking Pans](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/equipment/baking-pans/)
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 55 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Try my Best Banana Bread recipe with 3 ripe bananas and easy secret tricks—chef-perfected & fan-approved with 1500+ reviews. Moist and tasty\!
Author: Gemma Stafford
Servings: 8 people
## Ingredients
- 1½ cups (7 ½ oz/ 213 g) all-purpose flour
- Âľ cup (2ÂĽ oz/64 g) quick cooking oats
- â…” cup (5 oz/142 g) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons [baking powder](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/make-baking-powder-baking-soda/)
- ÂĽ teaspoon [baking soda](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/make-baking-powder-baking-soda/)
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (8 oz/225 g) mashed banana (3 small bananas)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ⅓ cup (2 ½ fl oz/71 ml) whole milk
- ÂĽ cup (2 fl oz/57 ml) vegetable oil
- 1½ teaspoons [vanilla extract](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/homemade-extracts/)
## Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl combine the flour, oats, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, finely mash the bananas with a fork. Whisk in eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla.
- Pour the dry ingredients into the bowl with the wet ingredients and mix by hand just until combined. Do not over mix as this can make the banana bread tough.
- Pour the banana bread batter into the pan and bake for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick or cake tester comes out clean. While the bread cools I like to cover the warm bread with foil which moisten and softens the bread.
- Enjoy as is with a cup of tea. Store at room temperature wrapped in cling wrap for up to 3 days. It also freezes really well for up to 4 weeks.
## Recipe Notes
- **Don’t use green, under-ripe bananas\!**
It is best to use brown, older bananas for a much sweeter and more pronounced banana flavor. Plus they’re way easier to mash.
- **Don’t mix all the wet ingredients and bananas together\!**
Speaking of mashing, mash the bananas first, then add the other wet ingredients. Mashing the bananas in the bowl by themselves first will allow you to get them much smoother and mushier. That is harder to do once the oil, milk, etc. are in there.
- **Don’t just dump all of the dry ingredients into the wet\!**
Always mix the dry ingredients in a separate bowl before adding them to the wet ingredients. By doing this you are ensuring your raising agents, spices, and salt will all be evenly mixed before the next step.
- **Do NOT over-beat your batter\!**
Gently mix the batter together gently until just combined. Leaving lumps is totally fine. Over-mixing means you can develop the gluten in the flour resulting in much tougher bread. Nobody wants a tough slice.
- **Don’t forget the parchment paper\!**
Always line your loaf pan with parchment paper. This is such a heavy, large loaf and you just want to buy yourself extra insurance that it will easily pop right out of the loaf pan.
- **Do not open the oven while baking\!**
Resist the urge to open that oven while baking!!! Opening the door in the first 20 minutes of baking lets out the steam and hot air and can cause the banana bread to fall leaving you with a flat loaf.
## Table of Contents
- [What is Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-banana-bread/#what-is-banana-bread)?
- [Tools You Need](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-banana-bread/#tools)
- [Key Ingredients and Substitutes](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-banana-bread/#key-ingredients-substitutes)
- [How to Make the Best Banana Bread Recipe](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-banana-bread/#how-to-make-the-best-banana-bread-recipe)
- [Gemma’s Pro Chef Tips](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-banana-bread/#pro-chef-tips)
- [Make Ahead and Storage Instructions](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-banana-bread/#make-ahead-storage-instructions)
- [Banana Bread Mix-ins and Variations](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-banana-bread/#banana-bread-mix-ins-variations)
- [How To Make Banana Bread Moist](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-banana-bread/#how-to-make-banana-bread-moist)
- [How to Make Gluten-Free Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-banana-bread/#how-to-make-gluten-free-banana-bread)
- [FAQs](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-banana-bread/#FAQs)
- [More Quick Bread Recipes](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-banana-bread/#more-quick-bread-recipes)
## What is Banana Bread?
Banana bread is a moist, sweet, and soft cake-like loaf made from ripe bananas. It’s a beloved treat, often enjoyed as a snack or breakfast, and can be customized with add-ins like nuts, chocolate, or spices.
- **Main ingredient:** Ripe bananas for natural sweetness.
- **Texture:** Soft, moist, and slightly dense.
- **Versatile:** Can include nuts, chocolate chips, or spices.
- **Flavor:** Sweet, with a rich banana taste.
- **Baking method:** Easy to make by mixing wet and dry ingredients, then baking in a loaf pan.
- **Appeal:** Offers a feeling of warmth and comfort, perfect for satisfying cravings.
**Fun Fact about Banana Bread:**
Banana bread, **originally a savory dish**, transformed into the sweet, moist loaf we enjoy today in the 1930s. Thanks to the invention of baking soda and powder, it became easier to make without yeast, and the recipe evolved into the beloved treat we know now\!
## Tools You Need for Making Banana Bread
- [9Ă—5 loaf pan](https://amzn.to/3Zt7Ynv)
- [Parchment paper](https://amzn.to/43CBZ5L)
- [Mixing bowls](https://amzn.to/3IUtfh0)
- [Measuring spoons](https://amzn.to/3BWuefw)
- [Measuring cups](https://amzn.to/3Shkpjd)
- [Measuring jugs](https://amzn.to/3SDDtI1)
- [Whisk](https://amzn.to/3CbLI8S) or fork
- [Spatula](https://amzn.to/3P9sTIs)
## Key Ingredients and Substitutes

### All-purpose Flour
- Also known as “AP” or “plain flour”, it has a 9-11% protein content to provide structure and texture to the bread.
- **Substitute:** Replace up to 50% of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber or use a [gluten-free flour blend](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/gluten-free-flour/) or [Easy Almond Flour Baking Mix](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/almond-flour-baking-mix/) for a gluten-free option.
### Quick Cooking Oats
- Adds texture, moisture, and a slight chewiness.
- **Substitute:**
- I don’t recommend using rolled oats as they don’t really cook out. Do NOT use steel-cut oats.
- You may try instant oats, oat flour, almond flour, whole wheat flour, ground flax seeds, or chia seeds for rolled oats starting at a 1:1 ratio. Note to adjust the wet ingredients to get the same consistency as the recipe.
### Granulated Sugar
- Sweetens the bread and helps with browning.
- **Substitute:** Honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener, or other sugar-free options such as stevia from my [Sugar Substitute Chart](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/how-to-substitute-sugar/) for a sugar-free option.
### Baking Powder
- Leavens the bread and helps it rise.
### Baking Soda
- Helps with leavening and provides lift to the bread.
### Cinnamon
- Adds warmth and flavor to the bread.
- **Substitute:** Nutmeg, [mixed spices](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/homemade-mixed-spice/) or [pumpkin pie spice](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/pumpkin-pie-spice/) for a different flavor profile.
### Salt
- Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
### Bananas
- Adds natural sweetness, moisture, and flavor.
- **Substitute:** [Applesauce](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/homemade-applesauce/) or mashed avocado for moisture, but will alter the flavor.
### Eggs
- Bind the ingredients and helps with rising.
- **Substitute:** Flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoon water), unsweetened yogurt, or other options from my [Egg Substitute Chart](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/egg-substitutes-for-baking/).
### Whole Milk
- Adds moisture and richness.
- **Substitute:** Any dairy-free milk such as [coconut milk](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/coconut-milk/), [almond milk](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/almond-milk/), [oat milk](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-dairy-free-milk/), or [cashew milk](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/cashew-milk/). Or [yogurt](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/how-to-make-yogurt/), [buttermilk,](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/homemade-buttermilk/) or [sour cream](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/how-to-make-sour-cream/) for a softer texture.
### Vegetable Oil
- Adds moisture and richness to the bread.
- **Substitute:** You can also use melted butter, ghee, cocconut oil, avocado oil, olive oil. Or unsweetened applesauce for a different flavor profile.
### [Vanilla Extract](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/homemade-extracts/)
- Adds depth of flavor and enhances the sweetness.
- **Substitute:** Vanilla pods or [Vanilla Bean Paste](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/how-to-make-vanilla-bean-paste/) will also be lovely.
## How to Make the Best Banana Bread Recipe
### Prep
1. Preheat your oven to **350°F (180°C)**. Prepare a 9×5 loaf pan with parchment paper.
### Make the Banana Bread Batter
1. **Mix dry ingredients:** In a medium bowl combine the flour, oats, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon and salt.
2. **Mix wet ingredients:** In a separate large bowl, finely mash the bananas with a fork. Whisk in eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla.

1. **Combine:** Pour the dry ingredients into the bowl with the wet ingredients and mix by hand just until combined. Do not over mix as this can make the banana bread tough.

### Bake the Best Ever Banana Bread
1. Pour the banana bread batter into the pan and bake for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick or cake tester comes out clean.

### Serve
1. Enjoy as is with a cup of tea. Or level it up with [Homemade Butter](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/homemade-butter/) or [Keto Nut Butters](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/nut-butters-keto-substitute/) such [Coconut Butter](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/coconut-butter-recipe/), [Pecan Butter](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/pecan-butter-pie/) and [Perfect Chocolate Macadamia Nut](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/macadamia-nut-butter-chocolate/) [Butter](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/macadamia-nut-butter-chocolate/).
## Gemma’s Pro Chef Tips
Despite the easiness of this recipe, there are in fact ways to make mistakes when whipping up a loaf. Let me break down the most common things people get wrong, so you can avoid them and sail straight to success.
- **Don’t use green, under-ripe bananas\!**
It is best to use brown, older bananas for a much sweeter and more pronounced banana flavor. Plus they’re way easier to mash.
- **Don’t mix all the wet ingredients and bananas together\!**
Speaking of mashing, mash the bananas first, then add the other wet ingredients. Mashing the bananas in the bowl by themselves first will allow you to get them much smoother and mushier. That is harder to do once the oil, milk, etc. are in there.
- **Don’t just dump all of the dry ingredients into the wet\!**
Always mix the dry ingredients in a separate bowl before adding them to the wet ingredients. By doing this you are ensuring your raising agents, spices, and salt will all be evenly mixed before the next step.
- **Do NOT over-beat your batter\!**
Gently mix the batter together gently until just combined. Leaving lumps is totally fine. Over-mixing means you can develop the gluten in the flour resulting in much tougher bread. Nobody wants a tough slice.
- **Don’t forget the parchment paper\!**
Always line your loaf pan with parchment paper. This is such a heavy, large loaf and you just want to buy yourself extra insurance that it will easily pop right out of the loaf pan.
- **Do not open the oven while baking\!**
Resist the urge to open that oven while baking!!! Opening the door in the first 20 minutes of baking lets out the steam and hot air and can cause the banana bread to fall leaving you with a flat loaf.
Make sure to check out [3 Incredible Ways To Use Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/banana-bread-3-ways/#recipe-video)\!

## Make Ahead and Storage Instructions
### Make-Ahead:
- Prepare the batter and store it in an airtight container in the **fridge for up to 24 hours** before baking.
- **Mashed overripe bananas** can be stored in the **fridge** for **1–2 days** before use.
- In the **freezer**, mashed bananas can be stored for up to **3 months**.
- Place in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and label with the date for easy tracking.
- Thaw in the **fridge** overnight or at room temperature for a quicker thaw.
### Storage:
Once baked, allow the banana bread to cool completely.
- Store at **room temperature** in an airtight container for up to **3 days**.
- For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and **freeze** for up to **4 week**s: Slice the banana bread and place a piece of parchment paper between each slice to easily grab and go.
- Thaw frozen banana bread overnight at room temperature before serving.
## Banana Bread Mix-ins and Variations
### Banana Bread Mix-Ins:
- Chocolate Chips: Add semi-sweet, milk, or dark chocolate chips for a rich, indulgent flavor.
- Nuts: Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds add crunch and flavor.
- Dried Fruit: Try adding raisins, cranberries, or dried apricots for a fruity twist.
- Shredded Coconut: Add sweetened or unsweetened coconut for texture and tropical flavor.
- Peanut Butter or Nut Butters: Swirl in peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter for a creamy, nutty twist.
- Marshmallows: Add mini marshmallows for a gooey, fun surprise.
- Toffee or Butterscotch Chips: For a sweet caramelized flavor.
### Banana Bread Variations:
- **Healthy Banana Bread:** Use whole wheat flour, reduce sugar, and add in ground flaxseed for a healthier version.
- [Gluten-Free Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/gluten-free-banana-bread-low-carb/): Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan Banana Bread: Replace eggs with flax eggs or chia eggs, and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
- Spiced Banana Bread: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for extra warmth and spice.
- [Pumpkin Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/pumpkin-banana-bread/): Add pumpkin puree for a fall-inspired flavor.
- Maple Banana Bread: Swap in maple syrup for some of the sugar for a rich, earthy flavor.
- [Chocolate Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/healthy-chocolate-banana-bread/): Add cocoa powder and chocolate chips for a decadent treat. Read on for details\!
## How To Make Banana Bread Moist
- **Use oats:** Oats help retain moisture and contribute to a chewy texture.
- **Opt for neutral oil:** Flavorless oils like vegetable oil ensure a soft, moist loaf.
- **Cover with foil:** Once your banana bread is golden brown, cover it with aluminum foil while it’s still warm. This traps steam, creating a soft, sticky top similar to gingerbread.
## How to Make Gluten-Free Banana Bread
Here’s how to make a gluten-free version of banana bread:
- Try our [Best Gluten-Free Banana Bread(Low Carb / Zero Added Sugar)](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/gluten-free-banana-bread-low-carb/): A delicious alternative to traditional banana bread, swapping regular ingredients for healthier options.
- **Key Ingredients:** This recipe uses almond flour and coconut flour for a gluten-free base, along with monk fruit sugar for a low-sugar, low-carb twist.
- **Dairy-Free Option:** It’s also dairy-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.
- **Perfect for Healthier Eating:** Ideal for those looking to enjoy banana bread that’s both healthier and full of flavor\!
- This recipe does use eggs, but even the eggs in the bread can be replaced with flax eggs making the bread entirely vegan.
## FAQs
How much do 3 bananas measure in grams, ounces, or cups?
Generally, one medium banana without peel measures around 120g (4oz/ 1/3 cup).
So you need around 360g (12 oz/ 1 cup) of mashed bananas.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour in banana bread.
When it comes to whole wheat/grain flour, I suggest whole wheat/grain: all-purpose flour in a 1:1 or 1: 2 ratio, so you won’t wind up with a dense result. Because whole wheat (or grain) has bran which weighs down protein a lot to make it difficult to rise.
A good rule of thumb to keep in mind while alternating the recipe: note to hold back some liquid by using up to 3/4 in one go and adjust it accordingly to get the same consistency as the recipe.
Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar in banana bread.
Sugar is not just a sweetener, it’s also a great binding agent.
More importantly, sugar is added to incorporate air in the batter to make banana bread light and fluffy in texture instead of being dense. This would be sacrificed to some point if you cut back the sugar by more than a quarter.
How do I know when my banana bread is fully baked?
The telltale sign for a full and properly baked banana bread is no wetness on top, firm to the touch in the center, the edge pulling away from the mold a little bit, or a toothpick inserted coming out clean.
Can I make mini banana bread loaves instead of a single large loaf?
Yes, you can bake this recipe in mini banana bread loaf pans. The baking time depends on the individual well’s size.
Can I use a different type of pan if I don’t have a loaf pan?
Yes, you can use a different size pan.
A standard 9-inch loaf pan holds up to 8 cups. If you don’t have one available, use an 8-inch square pan or a 9-inch round cake tin.
Monitor the baking time using the telltale signs listed above.
### How to Make [Chocolate Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/healthy-chocolate-banana-bread/)
- **Chocolate Chip Option:** You can add chocolate chips to any of the above recipes for a classic chocolate chip banana bread.
- **For True Chocoholics:** If you’re a chocoholic like me, try this Healthy Chocolate Banana Bread for something extra special\!
- **Nourishing Ingredients:** The recipe features 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, ground flax, coconut sugar, and coconut oil, making it rich and nourishing.
- **Bananas for Sweetness:** The bananas provide a natural sweetness, while the chocolate chips add a satisfying crunch, making this the perfect breakfast, snack, or dessert.

## Get More Quick Bread Recipes:
- [Strawberry Cornmeal Quick Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/strawberry-cornmeal-quick-bread/)
- [Blueberry Cream Cheese Quick Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/blueberry-cream-cheese-quick-bread/)
- [Almond Flour Banana Bread Recipe](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/almond-flour-banana-bread/)
- [Traditional Irish Soda Bread Recipe (Brown Bread)](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/irish-soda-bread/)
- [Gemma’s Best Ever Pumpkin Bread Recipe](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-pumpkin-bread/)
**IMPORTANT NOTE:** *This recipe was updated and improved on 12/21/2024, to include **NEW STEP-BY-STEP photography**, explanations and substitutes of key ingredients, make ahead and storage instructions, mix-ins and variations, answers to the latest frequently asked questions, and Pro Chef Tips.*
4\.69 from 993 votes ([705 ratings without comment](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-banana-bread/))
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Patrick De Muelenaere
6 years ago
Hi, I am new to your recipes but I was going to make the banana bread however, I didn’t know what baking pan or in what kind of material I should put the batter in because I’m afraid it will stick in a simple metal baking pan.
By the way, I have a funny joke:
What do you call a banana bread with no bananas?
A bread!!! (:
131
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[Pauline](https://www.instagram.com/pauline_plopa/)
5 years ago
I LOVE IT! I MADE IT SEVERAL TIMES NOW, IT’S THE BEST\!
57
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Donna
6 years ago
Gemma, hello from India, your recipes are my go-to. I’ve been using your recipes for years now. I’ve made breads, cakes, cupcakes, cookies… I’ve just come to trust only your recipes especially when I’m trying something new. So thank you!!!!\!
A grateful pregnant baker! (I’m 8 months pregnant and bake to pass time! )
56
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Patrick De Muelenaere
6 years ago
Could you do a recipe each week because of the COD VID 19 as we are all bored, i believe baking and cooking is a great way to spend and not wast time!!\!
48
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Ruth Rodenhauser
6 years ago
Everything a banana bread should be: moist, flavorful, and easy. My only addition was chopped pecans. Absolutely delicious! I had to make another one the same day\!
24
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[](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/author/ladyireland/)
[LadyIreland](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/author/ladyireland/)
6 years ago
Hi Gemma: First of all….Master George is adorable! I got another spark of wonderfulness to add to your banana bread. I added 3/4 cup of creamy peanut butter and 1 cup of mini semi-sweet chocolate chips. Yummy, yummy. Praying the Kurtz family remains safe during this nasty pandemic. Much love.
10
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Sayani
5 years ago
Hii gemma,
Awesome recipe. I did it with a lil twist. Used butter milk instead of egg n 1:1 ap floor and wheat flour (limited ingredients due to lockdown).. Came out so well. Really blessed to have you and ur recipes. All your recipes are soo great.
Tc
Sayani
9
Reply

Anshul Khandelwal
5 years ago
Hi Gemma,
For banana bread can we use replace normal oats instead of rolled oats and pineapple essence instead vanilla.
Cheers,
Anshul
9
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Susanna M
6 years ago
Hi Gemma, is it possible to bake your banana bread in a muffin tray as I don’t have a loaf tin to hand. If so what would be the best baking time?
Hope you and your family are keeping well and have a great Easter weekend ????????
9
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Sai Shruthi Iyengar
5 years ago
Hi Gemma,
I absolutely love your recipes. I’ve made your banana bread multiple times and love it. However due to the lockdown I don’t have access to rolled oats, but I have the regular quick cooking steel cut oats. Can I use that and are there any changes I’ll have to make to the recipe measurements?
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About Us
## Meet Gemma

About Us
## Meet Gemma
Hi Bold Bakers! I’m Gemma Stafford, a professional chef originally from Ireland, best-selling cookbook author, and the creator of *Bigger Bolder Baking* and the *Bold Baking Network*. I want to help you **bake with confidence anytime, anywhere** with my trusted and tested recipes and baking tips. You may have seen one of my 1000+ videos on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok or as a guest judge on *Nailed It! on Netflix* or the *Best Baker in America on Food Network*. No matter your skills, my Bold Baking Team & I want to be your \#1 authority for everything baking.
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*This post may contain affiliate links. Please see [my full disclosure](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/bbb-privacy-policy/) for details.*
Hi Bold Bakers\!
**WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE:** *This is the **Best Banana Bread Recipe**, **perfected** for flavor, moisture, and ease. With **a full cup** of ripe bananas and simple ingredients, it’s a **fan-favored** recipe that guarantees a delicious, comforting loaf every time to seasoned bakers and beginners. Plus, it’s been **praised in 1500+ reviews** across multiple platforms\!*
- **Incredibly Moist & Soft:** Thanks to my secret ingredient oats and the secret trick of using aluminum foil, your banana bread stays tender and flavorful.
- **Banana Flavor at its Best:** Packed with 3 ripe bananas, it’s bursting with sweet, rich flavor.
- **Easy to Make:** A prep of **only 20 minutes** with simple steps that anyone can follow, ensuring a perfect loaf every time.
- **Fan-Favored & Chef-Perfected:** Tested and perfected to deliver a moist, flavorful loaf that fans rave about.
If you’re anything like me, you probably have a cherished family banana bread recipe you keep on hand. But no more frantic searches for that forgotten scrap of paper! This recipe is your go-to, fail-proof solution for perfectly moist, flavorful banana bread.
And if you’re craving a new twist on this classic, I have a whole collection of variations you can try:
- [Mia’s Family Banana Nut Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/mias-banana-nut-bread/)
- [The Fastest Way to Make Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/banana-bread-in-a-mug/)
- [The Softest Sour Cream Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/sour-cream-banana-bread/)
- [The Essential Chocolate Chip Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/chocolate-chip-banana-bread/)
- [Warm & Comforting Pumpkin Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/pumpkin-banana-bread/)
- [Homemade Banana Bread Muffins](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/banana-bread-muffins-recipe/)
- [Cream Cheese Swirl Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/cream-cheese-banana-bread/)
- [Must-Try Blueberry Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/blueberry-banana-bread-recipe/)
- [3 Incredible Ways To Use Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/banana-bread-3-ways/)
- [Incredible Banana Bread French Toast](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/banana-bread-french-toast/)
- [Banana Bread Brownies](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/banana-bread-brownies/)
- [Elegant Banana Bread Trifle](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/banana-bread-trifle-recipe/)
- [Healthy Chocolate Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/healthy-chocolate-banana-bread/)
With years of banana bread baking experience, I’ve perfected the ultimate recipe by combining the best techniques and flavors. Keep reading for my tips to assure you a flawless loaf every time.
## Bold Bakers Loved This\!
*“I’ve cooked banana bread for over 50 years. This is the best recipe to date! I’ve made this specific recipe for the past couple of years. It’s my “welcome to the community” gift to new neighbors who have ALWAYS asked for the recipe.” — Rita*
*” As I write this, I am waiting for my banana bread to cool down as it’s still wrapped in foil. I have never had much luck with banana bread recipes until I tried yours and finally got a perfect loaf! That is now my only banana bread recipe!! ” — Lisa*
*“I can guarantee this is the best banana bread you’ve ever had and so easy to make. It’s my go-to recipe and my husband asks for me to make this all the time!” — Sarah P.*
**IMPORTANT NOTE:** *This recipe was updated and improved on 12/21/2024, to include **NEW STEP-BY-STEP photography**, explanations and substitutes of key ingredients, make ahead and storage instructions, mix-ins and variations, answers to the latest frequently asked questions, and Pro Chef Tips.*
## Watch The Recipe Video\!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes

Try my Best Banana Bread recipe with 3 ripe bananas and easy secret tricks—chef-perfected & fan-approved with 1500+ reviews. Moist and tasty\!
Author: Gemma Stafford
Servings: 8 people
## Ingredients
- 1½ cups (7 ½ oz/ 213 g) all-purpose flour
- Âľ cup (2ÂĽ oz/64 g) quick cooking oats
- â…” cup (5 oz/142 g) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons [baking powder](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/make-baking-powder-baking-soda/)
- ÂĽ teaspoon [baking soda](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/make-baking-powder-baking-soda/)
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (8 oz/225 g) mashed banana (3 small bananas)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ⅓ cup (2 ½ fl oz/71 ml) whole milk
- ÂĽ cup (2 fl oz/57 ml) vegetable oil
- 1½ teaspoons [vanilla extract](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/homemade-extracts/)
## Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl combine the flour, oats, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, finely mash the bananas with a fork. Whisk in eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla.
- Pour the dry ingredients into the bowl with the wet ingredients and mix by hand just until combined. Do not over mix as this can make the banana bread tough.
- Pour the banana bread batter into the pan and bake for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick or cake tester comes out clean. While the bread cools I like to cover the warm bread with foil which moisten and softens the bread.
- Enjoy as is with a cup of tea. Store at room temperature wrapped in cling wrap for up to 3 days. It also freezes really well for up to 4 weeks.
## Recipe Notes
- **Don’t use green, under-ripe bananas\!**
It is best to use brown, older bananas for a much sweeter and more pronounced banana flavor. Plus they’re way easier to mash.
- **Don’t mix all the wet ingredients and bananas together\!**
Speaking of mashing, mash the bananas first, then add the other wet ingredients. Mashing the bananas in the bowl by themselves first will allow you to get them much smoother and mushier. That is harder to do once the oil, milk, etc. are in there.
- **Don’t just dump all of the dry ingredients into the wet\!**
Always mix the dry ingredients in a separate bowl before adding them to the wet ingredients. By doing this you are ensuring your raising agents, spices, and salt will all be evenly mixed before the next step.
- **Do NOT over-beat your batter\!**
Gently mix the batter together gently until just combined. Leaving lumps is totally fine. Over-mixing means you can develop the gluten in the flour resulting in much tougher bread. Nobody wants a tough slice.
- **Don’t forget the parchment paper\!**
Always line your loaf pan with parchment paper. This is such a heavy, large loaf and you just want to buy yourself extra insurance that it will easily pop right out of the loaf pan.
- **Do not open the oven while baking\!**
Resist the urge to open that oven while baking!!! Opening the door in the first 20 minutes of baking lets out the steam and hot air and can cause the banana bread to fall leaving you with a flat loaf.
## Table of Contents
- [What is Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-banana-bread/#what-is-banana-bread)?
- [Tools You Need](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-banana-bread/#tools)
- [Key Ingredients and Substitutes](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-banana-bread/#key-ingredients-substitutes)
- [How to Make the Best Banana Bread Recipe](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-banana-bread/#how-to-make-the-best-banana-bread-recipe)
- [Gemma’s Pro Chef Tips](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-banana-bread/#pro-chef-tips)
- [Make Ahead and Storage Instructions](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-banana-bread/#make-ahead-storage-instructions)
- [Banana Bread Mix-ins and Variations](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-banana-bread/#banana-bread-mix-ins-variations)
- [How To Make Banana Bread Moist](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-banana-bread/#how-to-make-banana-bread-moist)
- [How to Make Gluten-Free Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-banana-bread/#how-to-make-gluten-free-banana-bread)
- [FAQs](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-banana-bread/#FAQs)
- [More Quick Bread Recipes](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-banana-bread/#more-quick-bread-recipes)
## What is Banana Bread?
Banana bread is a moist, sweet, and soft cake-like loaf made from ripe bananas. It’s a beloved treat, often enjoyed as a snack or breakfast, and can be customized with add-ins like nuts, chocolate, or spices.
- **Main ingredient:** Ripe bananas for natural sweetness.
- **Texture:** Soft, moist, and slightly dense.
- **Versatile:** Can include nuts, chocolate chips, or spices.
- **Flavor:** Sweet, with a rich banana taste.
- **Baking method:** Easy to make by mixing wet and dry ingredients, then baking in a loaf pan.
- **Appeal:** Offers a feeling of warmth and comfort, perfect for satisfying cravings.
**Fun Fact about Banana Bread:**
Banana bread, **originally a savory dish**, transformed into the sweet, moist loaf we enjoy today in the 1930s. Thanks to the invention of baking soda and powder, it became easier to make without yeast, and the recipe evolved into the beloved treat we know now\!
## Tools You Need for Making Banana Bread
- [9Ă—5 loaf pan](https://amzn.to/3Zt7Ynv)
- [Parchment paper](https://amzn.to/43CBZ5L)
- [Mixing bowls](https://amzn.to/3IUtfh0)
- [Measuring spoons](https://amzn.to/3BWuefw)
- [Measuring cups](https://amzn.to/3Shkpjd)
- [Measuring jugs](https://amzn.to/3SDDtI1)
- [Whisk](https://amzn.to/3CbLI8S) or fork
- [Spatula](https://amzn.to/3P9sTIs)
## Key Ingredients and Substitutes

### All-purpose Flour
- Also known as “AP” or “plain flour”, it has a 9-11% protein content to provide structure and texture to the bread.
- **Substitute:** Replace up to 50% of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber or use a [gluten-free flour blend](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/gluten-free-flour/) or [Easy Almond Flour Baking Mix](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/almond-flour-baking-mix/) for a gluten-free option.
### Quick Cooking Oats
- Adds texture, moisture, and a slight chewiness.
- **Substitute:**
- I don’t recommend using rolled oats as they don’t really cook out. Do NOT use steel-cut oats.
- You may try instant oats, oat flour, almond flour, whole wheat flour, ground flax seeds, or chia seeds for rolled oats starting at a 1:1 ratio. Note to adjust the wet ingredients to get the same consistency as the recipe.
### Granulated Sugar
- Sweetens the bread and helps with browning.
- **Substitute:** Honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener, or other sugar-free options such as stevia from my [Sugar Substitute Chart](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/how-to-substitute-sugar/) for a sugar-free option.
### Baking Powder
- Leavens the bread and helps it rise.
### Baking Soda
- Helps with leavening and provides lift to the bread.
### Cinnamon
- Adds warmth and flavor to the bread.
- **Substitute:** Nutmeg, [mixed spices](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/homemade-mixed-spice/) or [pumpkin pie spice](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/pumpkin-pie-spice/) for a different flavor profile.
### Salt
- Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
### Bananas
- Adds natural sweetness, moisture, and flavor.
- **Substitute:** [Applesauce](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/homemade-applesauce/) or mashed avocado for moisture, but will alter the flavor.
### Eggs
- Bind the ingredients and helps with rising.
- **Substitute:** Flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoon water), unsweetened yogurt, or other options from my [Egg Substitute Chart](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/egg-substitutes-for-baking/).
### Whole Milk
- Adds moisture and richness.
- **Substitute:** Any dairy-free milk such as [coconut milk](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/coconut-milk/), [almond milk](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/almond-milk/), [oat milk](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-dairy-free-milk/), or [cashew milk](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/cashew-milk/). Or [yogurt](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/how-to-make-yogurt/), [buttermilk,](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/homemade-buttermilk/) or [sour cream](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/how-to-make-sour-cream/) for a softer texture.
### Vegetable Oil
- Adds moisture and richness to the bread.
- **Substitute:** You can also use melted butter, ghee, cocconut oil, avocado oil, olive oil. Or unsweetened applesauce for a different flavor profile.
### [Vanilla Extract](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/homemade-extracts/)
- Adds depth of flavor and enhances the sweetness.
- **Substitute:** Vanilla pods or [Vanilla Bean Paste](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/how-to-make-vanilla-bean-paste/) will also be lovely.
## How to Make the Best Banana Bread Recipe
### Prep
1. Preheat your oven to **350°F (180°C)**. Prepare a 9×5 loaf pan with parchment paper.
### Make the Banana Bread Batter
1. **Mix dry ingredients:** In a medium bowl combine the flour, oats, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon and salt.
2. **Mix wet ingredients:** In a separate large bowl, finely mash the bananas with a fork. Whisk in eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla.

1. **Combine:** Pour the dry ingredients into the bowl with the wet ingredients and mix by hand just until combined. Do not over mix as this can make the banana bread tough.

### Bake the Best Ever Banana Bread
1. Pour the banana bread batter into the pan and bake for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick or cake tester comes out clean.

### Serve
1. Enjoy as is with a cup of tea. Or level it up with [Homemade Butter](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/homemade-butter/) or [Keto Nut Butters](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/nut-butters-keto-substitute/) such [Coconut Butter](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/coconut-butter-recipe/), [Pecan Butter](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/pecan-butter-pie/) and [Perfect Chocolate Macadamia Nut](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/macadamia-nut-butter-chocolate/) [Butter](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/macadamia-nut-butter-chocolate/).
## Gemma’s Pro Chef Tips
Despite the easiness of this recipe, there are in fact ways to make mistakes when whipping up a loaf. Let me break down the most common things people get wrong, so you can avoid them and sail straight to success.
- **Don’t use green, under-ripe bananas\!**
It is best to use brown, older bananas for a much sweeter and more pronounced banana flavor. Plus they’re way easier to mash.
- **Don’t mix all the wet ingredients and bananas together\!**
Speaking of mashing, mash the bananas first, then add the other wet ingredients. Mashing the bananas in the bowl by themselves first will allow you to get them much smoother and mushier. That is harder to do once the oil, milk, etc. are in there.
- **Don’t just dump all of the dry ingredients into the wet\!**
Always mix the dry ingredients in a separate bowl before adding them to the wet ingredients. By doing this you are ensuring your raising agents, spices, and salt will all be evenly mixed before the next step.
- **Do NOT over-beat your batter\!**
Gently mix the batter together gently until just combined. Leaving lumps is totally fine. Over-mixing means you can develop the gluten in the flour resulting in much tougher bread. Nobody wants a tough slice.
- **Don’t forget the parchment paper\!**
Always line your loaf pan with parchment paper. This is such a heavy, large loaf and you just want to buy yourself extra insurance that it will easily pop right out of the loaf pan.
- **Do not open the oven while baking\!**
Resist the urge to open that oven while baking!!! Opening the door in the first 20 minutes of baking lets out the steam and hot air and can cause the banana bread to fall leaving you with a flat loaf.
Make sure to check out [3 Incredible Ways To Use Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/banana-bread-3-ways/#recipe-video)\!

## Make Ahead and Storage Instructions
### Make-Ahead:
- Prepare the batter and store it in an airtight container in the **fridge for up to 24 hours** before baking.
- **Mashed overripe bananas** can be stored in the **fridge** for **1–2 days** before use.
- In the **freezer**, mashed bananas can be stored for up to **3 months**.
- Place in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and label with the date for easy tracking.
- Thaw in the **fridge** overnight or at room temperature for a quicker thaw.
### Storage:
Once baked, allow the banana bread to cool completely.
- Store at **room temperature** in an airtight container for up to **3 days**.
- For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and **freeze** for up to **4 week**s: Slice the banana bread and place a piece of parchment paper between each slice to easily grab and go.
- Thaw frozen banana bread overnight at room temperature before serving.
## Banana Bread Mix-ins and Variations
### Banana Bread Mix-Ins:
- Chocolate Chips: Add semi-sweet, milk, or dark chocolate chips for a rich, indulgent flavor.
- Nuts: Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds add crunch and flavor.
- Dried Fruit: Try adding raisins, cranberries, or dried apricots for a fruity twist.
- Shredded Coconut: Add sweetened or unsweetened coconut for texture and tropical flavor.
- Peanut Butter or Nut Butters: Swirl in peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter for a creamy, nutty twist.
- Marshmallows: Add mini marshmallows for a gooey, fun surprise.
- Toffee or Butterscotch Chips: For a sweet caramelized flavor.
### Banana Bread Variations:
- **Healthy Banana Bread:** Use whole wheat flour, reduce sugar, and add in ground flaxseed for a healthier version.
- [Gluten-Free Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/gluten-free-banana-bread-low-carb/): Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan Banana Bread: Replace eggs with flax eggs or chia eggs, and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
- Spiced Banana Bread: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for extra warmth and spice.
- [Pumpkin Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/pumpkin-banana-bread/): Add pumpkin puree for a fall-inspired flavor.
- Maple Banana Bread: Swap in maple syrup for some of the sugar for a rich, earthy flavor.
- [Chocolate Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/healthy-chocolate-banana-bread/): Add cocoa powder and chocolate chips for a decadent treat. Read on for details\!
## How To Make Banana Bread Moist
- **Use oats:** Oats help retain moisture and contribute to a chewy texture.
- **Opt for neutral oil:** Flavorless oils like vegetable oil ensure a soft, moist loaf.
- **Cover with foil:** Once your banana bread is golden brown, cover it with aluminum foil while it’s still warm. This traps steam, creating a soft, sticky top similar to gingerbread.
## How to Make Gluten-Free Banana Bread
Here’s how to make a gluten-free version of banana bread:
- Try our [Best Gluten-Free Banana Bread(Low Carb / Zero Added Sugar)](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/gluten-free-banana-bread-low-carb/): A delicious alternative to traditional banana bread, swapping regular ingredients for healthier options.
- **Key Ingredients:** This recipe uses almond flour and coconut flour for a gluten-free base, along with monk fruit sugar for a low-sugar, low-carb twist.
- **Dairy-Free Option:** It’s also dairy-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.
- **Perfect for Healthier Eating:** Ideal for those looking to enjoy banana bread that’s both healthier and full of flavor\!
- This recipe does use eggs, but even the eggs in the bread can be replaced with flax eggs making the bread entirely vegan.
## FAQs
Generally, one medium banana without peel measures around 120g (4oz/ 1/3 cup).
So you need around 360g (12 oz/ 1 cup) of mashed bananas.
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour in banana bread.
When it comes to whole wheat/grain flour, I suggest whole wheat/grain: all-purpose flour in a 1:1 or 1: 2 ratio, so you won’t wind up with a dense result. Because whole wheat (or grain) has bran which weighs down protein a lot to make it difficult to rise.
A good rule of thumb to keep in mind while alternating the recipe: note to hold back some liquid by using up to 3/4 in one go and adjust it accordingly to get the same consistency as the recipe.
Yes, you can reduce the sugar in banana bread.
Sugar is not just a sweetener, it’s also a great binding agent.
More importantly, sugar is added to incorporate air in the batter to make banana bread light and fluffy in texture instead of being dense. This would be sacrificed to some point if you cut back the sugar by more than a quarter.
The telltale sign for a full and properly baked banana bread is no wetness on top, firm to the touch in the center, the edge pulling away from the mold a little bit, or a toothpick inserted coming out clean.
Yes, you can bake this recipe in mini banana bread loaf pans. The baking time depends on the individual well’s size.
Yes, you can use a different size pan.
A standard 9-inch loaf pan holds up to 8 cups. If you don’t have one available, use an 8-inch square pan or a 9-inch round cake tin.
Monitor the baking time using the telltale signs listed above.
### How to Make [Chocolate Banana Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/healthy-chocolate-banana-bread/)
- **Chocolate Chip Option:** You can add chocolate chips to any of the above recipes for a classic chocolate chip banana bread.
- **For True Chocoholics:** If you’re a chocoholic like me, try this Healthy Chocolate Banana Bread for something extra special\!
- **Nourishing Ingredients:** The recipe features 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, ground flax, coconut sugar, and coconut oil, making it rich and nourishing.
- **Bananas for Sweetness:** The bananas provide a natural sweetness, while the chocolate chips add a satisfying crunch, making this the perfect breakfast, snack, or dessert.

## Get More Quick Bread Recipes:
- [Strawberry Cornmeal Quick Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/strawberry-cornmeal-quick-bread/)
- [Blueberry Cream Cheese Quick Bread](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/blueberry-cream-cheese-quick-bread/)
- [Almond Flour Banana Bread Recipe](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/almond-flour-banana-bread/)
- [Traditional Irish Soda Bread Recipe (Brown Bread)](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/irish-soda-bread/)
- [Gemma’s Best Ever Pumpkin Bread Recipe](https://www.biggerbolderbaking.com/best-ever-pumpkin-bread/)
**IMPORTANT NOTE:** *This recipe was updated and improved on 12/21/2024, to include **NEW STEP-BY-STEP photography**, explanations and substitutes of key ingredients, make ahead and storage instructions, mix-ins and variations, answers to the latest frequently asked questions, and Pro Chef Tips.* |
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