One-Bowl Banana Bread

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. In a large mixing bowl, mash 3 very ripe bananas (about 1½ cups mashed) thoroughly with a fork until only small lumps remain.

2. 2

   Stir in ⅓ cup of melted unsalted butter until well combined. Then mix in ¾ cup of granulated sugar, 1 beaten large egg, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.

3. 3

   Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of baking soda and a pinch of salt over the banana mixture and stir to combine. Add 1½ cups of all-purpose flour in one addition and stir just until no dry streaks remain — be careful not to overmix.

4. 4

   If desired, fold in ½ cup of roughly chopped walnuts or ½ cup of chocolate chips for added flavor and texture. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

5. 5

   Bake the banana bread in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 55–65 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean, and the top should be deeply golden brown with a crack down the center.

6. 6

   If the top is browning too quickly after 40 minutes, tent the loaf loosely with foil to prevent burning. Once baked, cool the bread in the pan for 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack.

7. 7

   Allow the banana bread to cool completely before slicing, as this will help maintain its structure and moisture.