Are you staring at 3 sad, spotty bananas on your counter? Don’t throw them away. Those overripe bananas are about to become the best banana bread you’ve ever made.
This is my go-to one-bowl banana bread recipe. No mixer, no fancy equipment, and only 10 minutes of prep. It’s incredibly moist, perfectly sweet, and uses melted butter so you don’t even need to wait for anything to soften.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One Bowl = Less Dishes: Everything mixes in the same bowl you mash the bananas in
- No Mixer Needed: Just a fork and a spatula
- Super Moist: The secret is sour cream and those very ripe bananas
- Freezer Friendly: Make 2 loaves and freeze one for later
How to Make One-Bowl Banana Bread
Step 1: Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mash & Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas. Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture and stir in. Add the flour and mix until just combined. Don’t overmix. Finally, fold in the sour cream and chocolate chips or nuts if using.
Step 4: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too fast, tent it with foil for the last 15 minutes.
Step 5: Cool
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This is the hardest part – waiting!
Pro Tips for Perfect Banana Bread
- Use REALLY ripe bananas: We’re talking black and spotty. They’re sweeter and mash easier
- Don’t overmix: Stop mixing as soon as the flour disappears. Overmixing = tough bread
- Check at 50 minutes: All ovens are different. A toothpick test is your best friend
How to Store Banana Bread
Keep it wrapped tightly on the counter for up to 4 days. Or slice and freeze for up to 3 months. Just pop a slice in the toaster for a quick breakfast.
This one-bowl banana bread is proof that the easiest recipes are often the best. Let me know in the comments if you try it!