Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 4 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Time
Preperation: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Baking: Approximately 50-60 minutes at 350°F (175°C)
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add the mashed bananas, milk, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as it can result in a dense bread.
- Pour the banana bread batter into the greased loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50-60 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready.
- Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the bread has cooled, you can slice and serve it. It's delicious as is, but you can also spread butter or cream cheese on each slice for added flavor.
Remember to adjust the baking time if you're using a different-sized loaf pan, as it may affect the cooking time. Feel free to add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or other mix-ins to customize your banana bread according to your preferences. Enjoy your homemade banana bread!