Banana bread, a beloved comfort food, has been a staple in kitchens for generations. It’s that perfect mix of soft, moist bread with a rich, sweet banana flavor ideal for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. What if I told you that you could make this classic treat with just four ingredients? That’s right! This recipe simplifies the baking process without sacrificing any of that delicious flavor we all love. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a complete novice, this banana bread recipe is your go-to for something quick, simple, and irresistibly good.
There is no love sincerer than the love of food
George Bernard Shaw
With more of us looking for easy, fuss-free recipes, this minimalist banana bread is a game-changer. You’ll learn how to make it in no time, using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. This recipe isn’t just about saving time it’s about capturing the essence of banana bread in its most straightforward, yet mouthwatering form.
Why You’ll Love This Ingredient Banana Bread Recipe
Effortless and Quick: With only four ingredients, there’s no need for complicated instructions or a long list of things to buy. It’s banana bread, made easy.
Minimal Cleanup: Less time spent prepping means less time spent cleaning. Win-win!
Perfect for Ripe Bananas: This recipe makes excellent use of those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. No waste—just deliciousness!
Versatile: You can customize it by adding extras like chocolate chips, nuts, or spices if you want to switch things up. But the base recipe is perfect as-is.
Affordable: With just a few common ingredients, this recipe won’t break the bank.
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How to Make Ingredient Banana Bread
Ingredients
- 3 large ripe bananas (the riper, the better)
- 2 cups of self-rising flour (this already contains the right amount of leavening agents)
- ½ cup of sugar (brown sugar or white, depending on preference)
- 1 large egg
Detailed Instructions
Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray. Alternatively, you can line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mash the Bananas: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until they form a smooth, creamy texture. You can use a fork, potato masher, or even a hand mixer if you prefer a smoother consistency.
Mix in the Sugar and Egg: Add the sugar and egg to the mashed bananas. Stir until well combined and smooth.
Add the Flour: Gradually fold in the self-rising flour. Be careful not to overmix; stirring until the flour is just incorporated is enough.
Pour into the Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. Tap the pan on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
Bake: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If you notice the top browning too quickly, lightly cover it with foil for the remainder of the baking time.
Cool and Serve: Once baked, let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice, serve, and enjoy your delicious homemade banana bread!
Tips For Ingredient Banana Bread
Use Overripe Bananas: The more spotted and brown your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Green bananas won’t cut it!
Customize It: If you feel adventurous, toss in some extras like chocolate chips, cinnamon, or chopped walnuts. Even a sprinkle of cinnamon or vanilla extract can add another layer of flavor.
Don’t Overmix: Stirring too much can make the banana bread dense and heavy. Aim for just combining the ingredients.
Test Doneness: Not all ovens are created equal, so always check the bread around the 45-minute mark. If your toothpick comes out clean, your bread is ready!
Storage: Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, or freeze slices individually for longer storage.
One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.”
Virginia Woolf
Recipe FAQ
Can I substitute the egg?
Yes, you can use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) or a chia egg. Both work well as egg replacements in this recipe.
What if I don’t have self-rising flour?
You can easily make your own! For every 1 cup of all-purpose flour, add 1½ teaspoons of baking powder and ¼ teaspoon of salt.
Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the self-rising flour with a gluten-free blend. Make sure it includes a rising agent, or add 1½ teaspoons of baking powder.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet bread, reduce the sugar by half or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
How do I store banana bread?
Store it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Easy 4 Ingredient Banana Bread Recipe: The Ultimate Guide
Ingredients
- 3 large ripe bananas the riper, the better
- 2 cups of self-rising flour this already contains the right amount of leavening agents
- ½ cup of sugar brown sugar or white, depending on preference
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray. Alternatively, you can line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mash the Bananas: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until they form a smooth, creamy texture. You can use a fork, potato masher, or even a hand mixer if you prefer a smoother consistency.
- Mix in the Sugar and Egg: Add the sugar and egg to the mashed bananas. Stir until well combined and smooth.
- Add the Flour: Gradually fold in the self-rising flour. Be careful not to overmix; stirring until the flour is just incorporated is enough.
- Pour into the Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. Tap the pan on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
- Bake: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If you notice the top browning too quickly, lightly cover it with foil for the remainder of the baking time.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice, serve, and enjoy your delicious homemade banana bread!
Notes
Nutrition Information (per slice)
Calories: 198 | Carbohydrates: 33g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1.1g | Sodium: 200mg | Potassium: 300mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 1mgLet me know!
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