Go Back
Adam

Grandma’s Banana Bread – Quick & Delicious

There’s something magical about the smell of banana bread baking in the oven — especially when it’s Grandma’s recipe. This is the kind of old-fashioned banana bread that brings back warm memories of cozy kitchens, handwritten recipe cards, and sweet bites shared around the table. Grandma’s Banana Bread is simple, comforting, and irresistibly moist. With just one bowl, a few pantry staples, and some overripe bananas, you’ll have a golden loaf ready in no time. Whether you enjoy it plain, toasted with butter, or alongside a cup of coffee, this quick and easy banana bread is a timeless treat that never disappoints.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
bake time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🍌 Fruits & Fresh Produce
  • 3 medium ripe bananas mashed
🥚 Refrigerated
  • 1 large egg
🥄 Dry & Pantry Items
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
🍦 Flavor Enhancers
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
🧈 Dairy
  • 1/3 cup melted butter cooled slightly
  • unsalted or salted — both work
🍯 Optional Add-ins: Chopped walnuts, chocolate chips, or cinnamon for extra flair.

Equipment

  • To make this classic banana bread, you’ll need:
  • 9×5-inch loaf pan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk or fork
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
  • Cooling rack
  • Butter knife (for slicing & serving)
  • 🧽 Bonus: This recipe uses just one bowl, so cleanup is minimal — just like Grandma would want!

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat Oven
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mash Bananas
  1. In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth using a fork or potato masher.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
  1. Add the melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the bananas.
  2. Stir until fully combined.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
  1. Sprinkle flour, baking soda, sugar, and salt over the banana mixture.
  2. Stir gently with a spatula just until no flour remains. Do not overmix.
Step 5: Pour & Bake
  1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
  2. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake
  1. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  2. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil at the 40-minute mark.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
  1. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes.
  2. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
🍞 Pro Tip: For added nostalgia, serve warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.

    Notes

    🧊 Storage & Reheating
    Room Temperature
    Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store for up to 3 days.
    Refrigerator
    Keep in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
    Freezer
    Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap, then foil.
    Freeze for up to 3 months.
    Reheating
    Microwave slices for 20–30 seconds.
    Toast lightly for a crisp edge and warm center.
    🥄 Variations
    Take Grandma’s recipe and make it your own with these add-ins:
    🍫 Chocolate Chip Banana Bread – Add 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips.
    🌰 Nutty Banana Bread – Mix in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
    🍯 Honey Banana Bread – Replace sugar with 1/3 cup honey.
    🍂 Spiced Banana Bread – Add 1 tsp cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice.
    🥥 Tropical Banana Bread – Add shredded coconut and a splash of coconut milk.
    🧁 Banana Muffins – Divide into muffin tins and bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes.
    ❓ 10 FAQs
    1. How ripe should the bananas be?
    Very ripe! Black or heavily spotted bananas are ideal for flavor and moisture.
    2. Can I use frozen bananas?
    Yes! Thaw completely and drain any excess liquid before using.
    3. Can I reduce the sugar?
    Yes. You can use as little as 1/3 cup if your bananas are very sweet.
    4. Can I use brown sugar instead of white?
    Absolutely! It adds a deeper flavor and makes the bread slightly moister.
    5. Can I make this gluten-free?
    Yes. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for baking.
    6. Can I double the recipe?
    Definitely. Bake in two loaf pans or a 9x13 pan and adjust baking time accordingly.
    7. Can I make this into muffins?
    Yes! Bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes in a lined muffin tin.
    8. How do I know when it’s done?
    Insert a toothpick in the center — if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it's ready.
    9. What’s the best way to mash bananas?
    A fork works fine, but for extra smooth batter, use a potato masher or electric mixer.
    10. Why is my banana bread dry?
    It may have been overmixed or overbaked. Stick to mixing until just combined and check it early.
    🏁 Conclusion
    Grandma’s Banana Bread is more than a recipe — it’s a warm, golden slice of tradition. With its tender crumb, rich banana flavor, and one-bowl simplicity, this loaf is a hug in every bite. It’s perfect for beginners, seasoned bakers, and anyone who just wants a piece of home.
    Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s been passed down through generations. Whether it’s your first time baking banana bread or your hundredth, this quick and delicious version will always deliver.