18 Delicious Easy Banana Bread Recipes Perfect for Beginners

Bananas are a staple ingredient in many households, and for good reason – they’re nutritious, delicious, and ridiculously versatile. But let’s be real, sometimes it’s hard to come up with new and exciting ways to use them. That’s why we’ve put together this collection of 18 easy banana bread recipes that are perfect for beginners.

From classic moist banana breads to decadent chocolate chip loaves, these recipes showcase the best of what bananas have to offer. And the best part? They’re all ridiculously easy to make, even for those who consider themselves culinary novices. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast on-the-go or a sweet treat to brighten up your day, we’ve got you covered.

In this article, we’ll be diving into each of these 18 recipes in detail, providing step-by-step instructions and helpful tips along the way. So whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, get ready to indulge in some serious banana bliss.

Classic Moist Banana Bread

Moist, flavorful banana bread with a hint of sweetness is the perfect treat to brighten up any day. This classic recipe yields a deliciously tender loaf that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and sugar.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

This recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the richness of dark chocolate chips, perfect for a satisfying snack or breakfast on-the-go. With its tender crumb and subtle banana flavor, this bread is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes

Vegan Banana Bread

This moist and delicious banana bread is a perfect treat for any time of day, whether you’re in the mood for breakfast or a snack.

Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup vegan butter (such as Earth Balance), melted
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Optional: walnuts or pecans for added crunch

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine melted vegan butter, sugar, and mashed bananas. Mix until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add non-dairy milk and vanilla extract to the wet ingredients. Stir until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes

Gluten-Free Banana Bread

Moist and delicious, this gluten-free banana bread is perfect for a snack or dessert. Made with ripe bananas, almond flour, and a hint of cinnamon, it’s a treat that everyone can enjoy.

Ingredients:
• 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 1/2 cups almond flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, eggs, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes

Banana Nut Bread

This banana nut bread recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the richness of chopped walnuts, perfect for a snack or dessert.

Ingredients:

– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Stir in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes

Banana Bread with Cinnamon Streusel

This classic banana bread recipe gets a delicious twist with the addition of a crunchy cinnamon streusel topping. The perfect treat for breakfast, snack time, or as a dessert.

Ingredients:

– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Cinnamon streusel topping (see below)

Cinnamon Streusel Topping:

– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Add sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract; stir until combined.
3. Fold in mashed bananas.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan.
5. Prepare cinnamon streusel topping by mixing flour, sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
6. Sprinkle streusel topping evenly over the banana bread.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes

Double Chocolate Banana Bread

This rich and decadent banana bread combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the deep flavor of dark chocolate, resulting in a moist and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes

Healthy Oatmeal Banana Bread

A delicious and nutritious twist on traditional banana bread, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the wholesome goodness of oatmeal.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, egg, honey, and vanilla extract (if using).
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts (if using).
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Banana Bread with Walnuts and Raisins

This classic banana bread recipe gets a delightful twist with the addition of crunchy walnuts and sweet raisins. The result is a moist, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for snacking or serving as a breakfast treat.

Ingredients:

– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts and raisins.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a plate.

Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes

Banana Bread with Cream Cheese Swirl

This classic banana bread recipe gets a creamy twist with the addition of a tangy cream cheese swirl throughout.

Ingredients:

– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup cream cheese softened (for the swirl)
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. For the cream cheese swirl: Mix softened cream cheese with 1 tablespoon granulated sugar. Cut into small pieces.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and create a swirly pattern by dropping spoonfuls of cream cheese mixture throughout the batter.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes

Banana Bread with Coconut and Pineapple

This moist and flavorful banana bread combines the sweetness of ripe bananas, the creaminess of coconut, and the tanginess of pineapple, perfect for a warm weather treat.

Ingredients:

– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, coconut, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, milk, eggs, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add pineapple chunks and stir to combine.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes

Banana Bread with Peanut Butter Swirl

This classic banana bread gets a delicious twist with the addition of a creamy peanut butter swirl, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup milk
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, eggs, mashed bananas, and milk. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
6. Swirl in the peanut butter (start by making a small log with the peanut butter, then roll it out to create a swirly design).
7. Top with the remaining batter and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes

Banana Bread with Blueberries

This moist and flavorful banana bread is packed with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, the tanginess of fresh blueberries, and a hint of warmth from cinnamon. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack.

Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in blueberries and cinnamon.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes

Banana Bread with Almond Flour

This recipe is a game-changer for those who follow a gluten-free diet or are looking to reduce their carb intake. By using almond flour instead of traditional wheat flour, you’ll get a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of ripe bananas.

Ingredients:

– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Banana Bread with Maple Glaze

Moist banana bread infused with the warm flavors of maple syrup, topped with a rich glaze – perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert.

Ingredients:

– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. While bread is still warm, prepare glaze by whisking together maple syrup and confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
7. Drizzle glaze over the cooled banana bread.

Cook Time: 55-60 minutes

Banana Bread with Pecans and Brown Sugar

Banana Bread with Pecans and Brown Sugar Recipe

Moist and delicious banana bread filled with the rich flavors of brown sugar, crunchy pecans, and warm spices.

Ingredients:

• 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add mashed bananas to the wet mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Pour in the dry ingredients and fold until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Stir in chopped pecans.
7. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
8. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
9. Lett it cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes

Banana Bread with Streusel Topping

This classic banana bread recipe is elevated by a crunchy streusel topping, adding a delightful textural contrast to the tender loaf.

Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Streusel Topping:
+ 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
+ 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
+ 1/2 cup granulated sugar
+ 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts, if using.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Prepare streusel topping by mixing flour, cold butter, sugar, and cinnamon until crumbly.
8. Sprinkle streusel topping evenly over the banana bread.
9. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes

Banana Bread with Greek Yogurt

This classic banana bread recipe gets a creamy twist by incorporating Greek yogurt, resulting in a moist and delicious loaf that’s perfect for breakfast or snack time.

Ingredients:

– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, Greek yogurt, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool on wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes

Summary

Are you a beginner in the kitchen looking for delicious and easy-to-make banana bread recipes? Look no further! In this article, we’ve compiled 18 mouth-watering banana bread recipes that are perfect for beginners. From classic moist banana bread to vegan and gluten-free options, there’s something for everyone. Try out our unique variations like chocolate chip, cinnamon streusel, or peanut butter swirl to give your banana bread a personal touch.