Have two ripe bananas on hand? Turn them into a delicious loaf of banana bread! You might think two bananas aren’t enough for moist and flavorful bread, but that’s not the case. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a soft and tasty banana bread in no time. This quick recipe requires only two bananas, some oil, and a single bowl—no mixer needed and just 10 minutes of prep.
So, instead of running to the store for more bananas, try this easy, go-to recipe and enjoy homemade banana bread anytime!
I get it—you’ve got two bananas and need a plan.
No worries, I’ve got just the thing! If you’re looking for a simple, beginner-friendly banana bread recipe, you’re in the right place. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can turn those ripe bananas into a soft, delicious loaf. It’s one of the best ways to use up overripe bananas, and you won’t believe how easy it is to make!
Banana Bread Ingredients
Chances are, you already have everything you need to make this banana bread. But if not, here’s what to grab on your next grocery run:
- Flour – All-purpose flour provides the structure for the loaf.
- Baking Soda – This helps the bread rise and keeps it light.
- Salt – A small amount enhances the overall flavor without making it salty.
- Oil or Butter – Adds richness, moisture, and a deep flavor.
- Brown Sugar – Sweetens the bread while adding a hint of warmth.
- Eggs – Acts as a binding agent to hold the batter together.
- Bananas – The star ingredient! Overripe bananas work best for a naturally sweet and flavorful loaf.
How to Make Banana Bread
Want to bake a soft, moist banana bread? Here’s a quick rundown of the process. For full details, check the step-by-step instructions below.
- Preheat & Prep – Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream Butter & Sugar – In a separate bowl, beat brown sugar and butter until smooth.
- Add Wet Ingredients – Mix in eggs and mashed bananas until well combined.
- Combine & Pour – Gently stir the banana mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake – Place in the oven and bake for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Enjoy – Let the bread rest in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
And that’s it! In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious homemade banana bread ready to enjoy.
How to Keep Banana Bread Moist
This banana bread stays incredibly moist thanks to butter, eggs, and brown sugar—brown sugar retains more moisture than white sugar. Plus, mashed bananas naturally add softness and richness. To keep your bread fresh for days, store it properly in an airtight container or wrap it tightly.
How Long to Bake Banana Bread
Bake your banana bread at 350°F (175°C) for about an hour. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before removing it—this helps the loaf hold its shape and prevents it from falling apart. Enjoy!
How to Store Banana Bread
To keep banana bread from drying out, store it in an airtight container, a food-safe resealable bag, or wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap.
How Long Does Banana Bread Last?
- At Room Temperature – Stays fresh for 2 to 3 days if stored properly.
- In the Fridge – Lasts up to 1 week when kept in an airtight container.
How to Freeze Banana Bread
For long-term storage, wrap the banana bread tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag for extra protection.
How Long Does Banana Bread Last in the Freezer?
- Stays fresh for about 2 months when properly stored.
When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or warm it up for a fresh-baked taste!
FAQs
How many cups of bananas are 2 bananas?
Two medium-sized bananas generally yield about 1 cup of mashed banana. The exact amount may vary depending on the size of the bananas.
What is the number one mistake made when making banana bread?
Overmixing the batter is the most common mistake. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a dense, rubbery texture instead of a soft, moist loaf.
What if you don’t have ripe bananas?
If your bananas aren’t ripe, you can ripen them quickly by baking them in the oven at 300°F for about 15–20 minutes until the skins turn black. Alternatively, microwaving bananas for 30 seconds can soften them enough for mashing.
What is the formula for banana bread?
A basic formula for banana bread involves:
- 2–3 ripe bananas (about 1 cup mashed)
- 1 ¾ cups flour
- ½–¾ cup sugar
- 1 egg
- ⅓ cup butter or oil
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
How many bananas are in 1 cup?
One cup of mashed banana typically equals about 2 medium bananas or 3 small ones.
Should I use baking soda or baking powder for banana bread?
Use baking soda if your recipe includes acidic ingredients like bananas or buttermilk, as it helps with proper leavening. Baking powder can be used in addition to baking soda if no acidic ingredients are present.
When should you use bananas for banana bread?
The best bananas for banana bread are very ripe, with brown or black speckles on their skin. These bananas are sweeter and softer, which enhances the flavor and texture of the bread.
Why won’t my banana bread cook in the middle?
If the center of your banana bread isn’t cooking, it could be due to:
- Temperature issues: Your oven might be running cooler than expected. Always preheat and check the oven temperature with an oven thermometer.
- Pan size: Using a larger pan can cause uneven baking. Stick to the size specified in the recipe.
- Overfilling the pan: Too much batter in the pan can prevent even cooking.
To resolve this, tent the bread with foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes at a lower temperature.
One of the best things about this recipe is how well it can be shared. Bake a loaf for a friend or bring it to a gathering—it’s sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to experiment with add-ons like chocolate chips or nuts to keep it exciting every time you bake.
For another crowd-pleaser, try pairing this bread with a warm beverage or a spread like cream cheese for an indulgent twist.
For more baking inspiration, check out:
- Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins with 2 Bananas
- Banana Pudding Recipe
- Easy Sourdough Sandwich Bread
- Brioche Loaf Recipe
You can find the nutrition facts for this loaf at the very bottom of the recipe.
This unadulterated Banana Bread Recipe with 2 Bananas such a gem, and if you have attempted it, it would be highly appreciated if you could drop a comment with stars to let me know how it turned out for you! It gives me joy to hear from you – it encourages me to come up with more and more recipes for you guys😊 Ready, steady, cook! – Emily
Banana Bread Recipe with 2 Bananas – Simple, Delicious, and Perfect
This easy 2-banana banana bread recipe is soft, moist, and packed with flavor! Perfect for using up overripe bananas, this quick bread requires simple ingredients and minimal prep time. No mixer needed—just one bowl and a few pantry staples to create a delicious homemade treat.
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 1 loaf (12 slices) 1x
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas (about 1 cup mashed)
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Mash & Mix: In another bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Stir in brown sugar, oil (or butter), eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine: Gradually fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—do not overmix.
- Pour & Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Serve: Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, add ½ teaspoon cinnamon or a handful of chocolate chips or nuts.
- To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
- Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: (1/12 of loaf)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 13 g
- Sodium: 179mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 49mg
Keywords: banana bread, 2-banana recipe, easy banana bread, moist banana loaf, quick banana bread, homemade banana bread
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