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Perfect Small-Batch Banana Bread: Easy One Loaf Recipe

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This small-batch banana bread is made in one bowl with no mixer, using ripe bananas and simple pantry ingredients. It yields a perfectly moist, tender loaf ideal for small households or gifting.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium ripe bananas (about 1 cup mashed)
  • 1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • ⅓ cup (75g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup optional add-ins (chopped walnuts, pecans, chocolate chips, or dried fruit)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Position rack in center.
  2. Grease an 8×4-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray. Optionally line with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
  3. Peel and mash bananas in a mixing bowl with a fork until mostly smooth with a few small lumps.
  4. Add melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk until smooth and glossy.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
  6. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients. Fold gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined—do not overmix. A few lumps are fine.
  7. If using add-ins, fold them in gently.
  8. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Smooth the top.
  9. Bake for 50-60 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Start checking at 50 minutes.
  10. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  11. Slice and serve. For cleanest slices, wait until completely cool.

Notes

Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for best sweetness and moisture. Do not overmix the batter to avoid tough bread. Measure flour by spooning and leveling. Let bread cool completely before slicing for clean cuts. For a dairy-free version, substitute melted coconut oil for butter. For a vegan version, use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) and coconut oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: banana bread, small batch, one bowl, easy, moist, quick bread, ripe bananas

Find it online: https://lumalunch.com/perfect-small-batch-banana-bread-easy-one-loaf-recipe/