Mom’s Perfect Banana Bread Recipe

Method:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mash the Bananas:
   • In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
   • Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
   • Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the banana and butter mixture.
   • Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture and stir to incorporate.
   • Add the flour last, stirring just until the batter is combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
5. Prepare to Bake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
6. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
   • If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.
7. Cool and Serve:
   • Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
   • Transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips for Perfect Banana Bread:

• Ripe Bananas: Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness.
• Moisture Balance: Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the bread light and tender.
• Add-Ins: Customize your banana bread with add-ins like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.
• Storage: Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. It also freezes well; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.