Classic Banana Bread is a beloved comfort food that transforms ripe bananas into a moist, sweet, and tender loaf. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this easy-to-make bread combines simple pantry ingredients with the natural sweetness and flavor of bananas. Its soft crumb and slightly caramelized crust make it a timeless favorite that’s sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  
  

• 1 teaspoon baking soda
  
  

• ½ teaspoon salt
  
  

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  
  

• ¾ cup brown sugar
  
  

• 2 large eggs
  
  

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  
  

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  
  

• Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips
  
  

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
   
   

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
   
   

3. In a large bowl, cream softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
   
   

4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
   
   

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Fold in walnuts or chocolate chips if using.
   
   

6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
   
   

7. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   
   

8. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
   
   

Nutritional Information (per slice, approx., makes 10 slices):

• Calories: 220 kcal
  
  

• Total Fat: 9 g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 5 g
  
  

• Cholesterol: 55 mg
  
  

• Sodium: 210 mg
  
  

• Total Carbohydrates: 31 g
  
  

• Dietary Fiber: 2 g
  
  

• Sugars: 17 g
  
  

• Protein: 3 g