Easy One-Bowl Banana Bread

Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins Difficulty: Beginner
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Introduction

Banana bread is a classic favorite for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, but it often feels like a multi-step process. Easy One-Bowl Banana Bread simplifies this beloved recipe into a single bowl, minimizing cleanup while still delivering a moist, flavorful loaf. Using overripe bananas, this method combines all ingredients in one bowl—no need for separate mixing bowls or complicated steps.

This loaf is tender, soft, and aromatic, with the natural sweetness of bananas shining through. The one-bowl method makes it accessible for bakers of all skill levels, proving that delicious, homemade banana bread doesn’t have to be complicated.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s effortless yet reliably delicious. The simplicity of mixing everything in one bowl saves time and reduces dishes while still yielding a perfectly moist, flavorful banana bread. It’s the ideal recipe for busy mornings, last-minute snack cravings, or when you want to use up overripe bananas quickly.

Additionally, the one-bowl method makes it less intimidating for beginners, while still offering the rich, comforting flavors that make banana bread a universal favorite. Each slice is tender, aromatic, and satisfying, making it a comforting treat for any occasion.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because it combines:

  1. Simplicity: Only one bowl needed, reducing cleanup.
  2. Moisture & Flavor: Overripe bananas and simple ingredients create a tender, flavorful loaf.
  3. Quick & Reliable: Easy for beginners and consistent results every time.
  4. Versatility: Enjoy plain or customize with nuts, chocolate chips, or spices.

It’s the ultimate beginner-friendly banana bread recipe that never disappoints and is perfect for busy households.

Preparation & Cooking Time

  • Preparation Time: 5–10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 50–60 minutes
  • Total Time: 55–70 minutes

Servings & Nutrition

  • Servings: 8–10 slices
  • Calories per Serving: ~210 kcal

Recipe Details

  • Course: Breakfast / Snack / Dessert
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 3–4 overripe bananas, mashed (about 1 ½ cups)
  • ⅓ cup melted butter or vegetable oil
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar (can reduce to ½ cup if preferred)
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips (optional)

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
  2. Mash Bananas: In a large bowl, mash overripe bananas until smooth.
  3. Add Wet Ingredients: Add melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
  4. Mix Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle in flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Add Optional Ingredients: Fold in nuts or chocolate chips if desired.
  6. Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
  7. Bake: Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve

  • Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
  • Spread with butter, nut butter, or cream cheese for extra indulgence.
  • Serve with coffee, tea, or milk for breakfast or snack.
  • Toast slices lightly for added texture and flavor.

Recipe Tips

  • Use overripe bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and moisture.
  • Do not overmix the batter; fold gently to avoid a dense loaf.
  • Check for doneness with a toothpick; baking times may vary by oven.
  • Add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips last to ensure even distribution.

Variations

  1. Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Fold in ½ cup chocolate chips.
  2. Nutty Banana Bread: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
  3. Cinnamon Swirl: Add an extra ½ tsp cinnamon or swirl in cinnamon sugar before baking.
  4. Vegan Banana Bread: Replace eggs with flax eggs and butter with coconut oil.
  5. Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

Freezing & Storage

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.
  • Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

  • Large mixing bowl (for all ingredients)
  • 9×5-inch loaf pan
  • Fork or potato masher
  • Spoon or spatula for mixing
  • Wire cooling rack
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Conclusion

Easy One-Bowl Banana Bread is a simple, fuss-free loaf that turns overripe bananas into a soft, flavorful treat. Minimal cleanup, quick preparation, and reliable results make it a go-to recipe for any home baker. Whether enjoyed plain, with mix-ins, or spread with your favorite toppings, this one-bowl banana bread is moist, tender, and irresistibly delicious—proof that baking doesn’t have to be complicated to be perfect.

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Easy One-Bowl Banana Bread

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 60 mins Total Time 1 hr 10 mins
Calories: per Serving: ~210 kcal

Description

Banana bread is a classic favorite for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, but it often feels like a multi-step process. Easy One-Bowl Banana Bread simplifies this beloved recipe into a single bowl, minimizing cleanup while still delivering a moist, flavorful loaf.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
  2. Mash Bananas: In a large bowl, mash overripe bananas until smooth.
  3. Add Wet Ingredients: Add melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
  4. Mix Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle in flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Add Optional Ingredients: Fold in nuts or chocolate chips if desired.
  6. Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
  7. Bake: Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Keywords: Easy One-Bowl Banana Bread
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Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:

Q1: Can I make mini loaves or muffins with this recipe?

Yes, bake mini loaves for 30–35 minutes or muffins for 20–25 minutes at the same temperature.

Q2: Can I reduce sugar?

Yes, reducing sugar to ½ cup or using a natural sweetener works well, though it may slightly affect texture.

Q3: Can I add other fruits?

Yes, blueberries, crushed pineapple, or shredded apple work well as additional flavors.

Q4: How do I keep the bread moist?

Use overripe bananas, do not overmix, and avoid overbaking. Wrap while slightly warm to lock in moisture.


Samantha Doe Food and Lifestyle Blogger

Hi, I'm Samantha, a full-time food blogger, mother of 2 beautiful daughters and a lovely wife. I live in New Jersey with my family. Loves traveling, sharing new recipes, and spending time with my family.