The Yummiest Banana Bread

If you have 3 ripe bananas sitting on your counter, it’s time to whip up The Yummiest Banana Bread Recipe ever! This tried-and-true recipe has been a favorite in my home for nearly a decade (originally shared back in 2015), and it turns out perfectly every single time.

This banana bread is everything you want in a classic recipe: a tender, moist texture, rich sweet banana flavor, and the kind of aroma that fills your home with pure comfort. It’s versatile too—freezable for make-ahead convenience, giftable for neighbors and friends, and the perfect treat to pair with your morning coffee or an afternoon snack. Trust me, it won’t last long on your counter!

This recipe has a special place in my heart because it was passed down to me by my dear friend McKinsey back in 2015, when we were neighbors for the first time. She often surprised me with a fresh loaf, and it never lasted more than a day in our house! The best part? This recipe originally came from her mom, who got it from one of her best friends—a true testament to how good it is. Recipes like this, shared through friends and family, are the ones I’ll cherish forever.

Now, let’s get baking and turn those ripe bananas into the best banana bread ever!

The Yummiest Banana Bread Recipe Ingredients

• Vegetable Oil
• Sugar
• Eggs
• Ripe Bananas (Make sure your bananas are overripe and have dark brown speckles for optimal flavor!)
• Flour
• Vanilla
• Baking Soda
• Baking Powder
• Salt
• Milk
• Poppy Seeds (optional)

Things You Can Add to Your Banana Bread

Want to take your banana bread to the next level? There are so many delicious ways to mix it up! Some of my favorites include poppy seeds (a subtle crunch that’s always a hit), toasted or chopped walnuts and pecans for a nutty twist, or classic chocolate chips to add a touch of sweetness. Feeling adventurous? Try butterscotch chips for a rich caramel flavor, shredded coconut for a tropical vibe, or even dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a chewy texture. The possibilities are endless—get creative and make it your own!

Recipe Tools

• Stand Mixer: I prefer to mix all the ingredients in my stand mixer. It’s just so easy
• Bread Loaf Pan: This is the one I use and love. I sometimes line the pan with parchment paper so I can pull the loaf right out and not have to worry about scrubbing the pan after.

Why We Love This Yummiest Banana Bread Recipe

• Easy to make: Don’t let the ingredients list fool you—this banana bread comes together in no time. With my stand mixer, I can have it prepped and ready to bake in less than 10 minutes. Just pop it in the oven for an hour and let the irresistible aroma fill your home.
• Freezes great: See instructions below. Perfect for making ahead of time, freezing and thawing for holiday gatherings.
• Perfect texture: Dense, tender, and incredibly moist—this bread stays fresh for days (though it rarely lasts that long in our house)!
• Highly giftable: Homemade banana bread makes a thoughtful gift for just about anyone—neighbors, teachers, co-workers, or holiday hosts. It’s also a wonderful addition to a drop-off meal for someone in need. People often forget that a snack or breakfast item can be just as appreciated as dinner!
• Great for Breakfast, Snack or Treat: This banana bread is a versatile option for busy families. Serve it as a quick and easy weekday breakfast for the kids or as a simple after-dinner treat. Spread with a little butter, cream cheese, or nut butter for an extra special touch!

How To Freeze & Thaw Banana Bread

Freezing Instructions:

1. Cool the banana bread completely to prevent freezer burn.
2. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then a layer of aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe bag with the air removed.
3. Label it with the date and freeze it for up to 3 months.

Thawing Instructions:

• For a whole loaf: Keep wrapped and thaw at room temperature for 2–4 hours or overnight in the fridge.
• For slices: Unwrap and thaw at room temperature for 20–30 minutes, or microwave on the defrost setting for 15–30 seconds.

Reheating (Optional):
Unwrap and place in a 325°F oven for about 10–15 minutes for slices or up to 30 minutes for a whole loaf.

These simple steps will keep your banana bread fresh and ready to enjoy anytime!

Watch my Banana Bread Recipe Reel HERE!

Recipe originally published February 2015. Blog post refreshed in January 2025 to add new photographs. The original recipe remains the same.

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