Easy Brown Sugar Banana Bread Recipe

Is there anything more comforting than the scent of freshly-baked banana bread wafting through the house? Our easy brown sugar banana bread recipe will quickly become a cherished staple in your baking repertoire. Not only is it moist and delicious, but it also makes for a delightful breakfast or a sweet treat any time of the day.

Every Sunday morning, the warmth of banana bread fills our kitchen, bringing with it fond memories of baking with my grandmother. She always insisted on adding a secret ingredient: a sprinkle of cinnamon that elevated the flavor to new heights. Now, as I bake this recipe with my own family, those cherished traditions are passed down, making every slice a taste of nostalgia.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This banana bread is uniquely delightful because it’s incredibly easy to make and requires only a few simple ingredients you likely have on hand. The addition of brown sugar gives it a rich molasses flavor that sets it apart from traditional banana breads. Plus, it stays moist for days, making it perfect for breakfast or a snack on-the-go.

Ingredients Notes

To create this delightful banana bread, you’ll need ripe bananas, brown sugar, and a handful of pantry staples. Opt for overripe bananas as they mash easily and infuse the bread with natural sweetness. If you’re out of brown sugar, white sugar with a tablespoon of molasses can be a suitable replacement. For a nutty twist, consider adding walnuts or pecans.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This ensures the bread releases easily after baking.

Step 2

In a large bowl, mash three overripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/3 cup of melted butter, and a teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Step 3

Mix in 1 teaspoon of baking soda, a pinch of salt, and 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour. Be sure not to overmix to keep the bread tender.

Step 4

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.

Step 5

Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Storage Options

Store any leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat slices in the toaster or microwave.

Variations & Substitutions

For a healthier twist, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Add a cup of chocolate chips for a decadent version, or if you prefer, throw in a handful of dried cranberries for a fruity surprise. Vegan? Substitute the butter with a plant-based option and use flaxseed eggs.

Serving Suggestions

This banana bread is perfect for breakfast paired with a cup of coffee. It also makes a great addition to afternoon tea. Try serving it warm with a spread of cream cheese for added richness, or enjoy it plain to savor the full flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen bananas? Absolutely! Just ensure they are fully thawed and any excess liquid is drained before mashing. Frozen bananas often work even better, as they are typically overripe, enhancing the sweetness and flavor of the bread.

Why is my banana bread dense? Overmixing the batter can lead to dense banana bread. Be sure to gently fold the ingredients until just combined. Additionally, check your baking soda’s freshness, as an expired leavening agent can impact the bread’s rise.

How can I ripen bananas quickly? To hasten the ripening process, place bananas in a brown paper bag and close it loosely. For an even quicker method, place them in an oven at 300°F for about 15 minutes until they blacken.

Easy Brown Sugar Banana Bread Recipe

This easy banana bread uses brown sugar for a rich, caramel flavor. Perfect for breakfast or as a dessert!

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Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack

Kitchen: American

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour hour

Total Time: 1 hour hour 15 minutes minutes

Servings: 8

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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• ▢ 1/2 lb 2 sticks unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
• ▢ 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• ▢ 2 large eggs
• ▢ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ▢ 1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas about 3–4 bananas
• ▢ 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ▢ 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon salt
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon optional
• ▢ 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans optional

Instructions

• Preheat Oven:
• Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
• Mix Wet Ingredients:
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla, then stir in the mashed bananas.
• Add Dry Ingredients:
• Sprinkle flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon over the banana mixture. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix. If using, fold in nuts at this point.
• Bake:
• Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last 10–15 minutes.
• Cool & Slice:
• Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Notes

Enjoy this banana bread warm with a spread of butter.