A moist and flavorful banana bread made with oil, perfect for a snack or dessert. This recipe is simple, versatile, and uses pantry staples. Its rich banana flavor pairs beautifully with your favorite mix-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits.
3medium-sizedRipe bananas(mashed, approximately 1 cup)
½cupVegetable oil(canola, sunflower, or coconut oil)
2largeEggs (room temperature)
¾cupGranulated sugar(or substitute with brown sugar for extra moisture)
1tspVanilla extract
1 ½cupsAll-purpose flour
1tspBaking soda
½tspSalt
½tspGround cinnamon(optional, for extra flavor)
½cupMix-ins(optional, such as chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a medium bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork or potato masher until smooth but with a few small lumps for texture.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Stir in the mashed bananas.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and optional cinnamon.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a denser bread.
Step 5: Add Mix-Ins (Optional)
If using mix-ins, gently fold them into the batter.
Step 6: Transfer and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Oil Options: Vegetable oil ensures moistness, but you can use melted coconut oil or light olive oil for a different flavor profile.
Ripe Bananas: Overripe bananas with brown spots are best for this recipe as they add natural sweetness and moisture.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix for a gluten-free version.
Sugar Alternatives: Swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar or a natural sweetener like maple syrup.
Storage: Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations:
Chocolate Banana Bread: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
Nutty Banana Bread: Add ½ cup of your favorite chopped nuts.
Tropical Twist: Stir in shredded coconut and diced dried pineapple for a tropical flair.
Enjoy this simple yet delicious banana bread with a cup of tea or coffee, or as a delightful breakfast treat.