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Easy One-Bowl Banana Bread: Best No-Mixer Recipe

easy one-bowl banana bread - featured image

This easy one-bowl banana bread recipe is the result of an obsession to recreate a beloved bakery version. No mixer required, just one bowl and a fork, delivering perfectly moist banana bread with a crackly, caramelized top every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large ripe bananas, mashed (about 1½ cups)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (1 stick)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, greasing the exposed ends.
  2. Mash the bananas in a large mixing bowl with a fork until mostly smooth with a few small lumps.
  3. Pour in the cooled melted butter and stir into the bananas until combined, about 30 seconds.
  4. Add the granulated sugar and stir until combined; the mixture will look grainy.
  5. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, stirring vigorously until smooth and slightly glossy.
  6. Sprinkle the flour, baking soda, and salt over the wet mixture. Fold together with a spatula or fork just until no streaks of flour remain; a few lumps are okay.
  7. If using, fold in optional mix-ins (nuts, chocolate chips, or cinnamon) gently.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading evenly. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release air bubbles.
  9. Bake for 55-65 minutes, checking at 50 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done.
  10. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift out using parchment paper handles and transfer to a wire rack. Cool completely before slicing, about 1 hour.

Notes

Use bananas that are mostly brown with soft spots for best sweetness and moisture. Don’t overmix the batter to avoid tough bread. Check baking soda freshness by testing with vinegar. Let eggs come to room temperature to prevent butter from seizing. Toast nuts before adding for extra flavor. Bake on the middle rack for even heat. If top browns too quickly, tent with foil for the last 15 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: banana bread, easy banana bread, one-bowl banana bread, no-mixer banana bread, moist banana bread, homemade banana bread