Print

One-Bowl Banana Nut Bread: Easy, Kid-Approved Recipe

one-bowl banana nut bread - featured image

This one-bowl banana nut bread is quick, easy, and perfect for using up overripe bananas. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s a crowd-pleaser that stays moist for days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan with butter or cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Mash the bananas in your mixing bowl with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth with a few small lumps.
  3. Add the melted butter and sugar. Stir until combined.
  4. Crack in the egg and add the vanilla. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
  5. Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the batter. Stir gently, then add the flour. Mix until just combined—a few streaks of flour are okay.
  6. Fold in the walnuts if using. Reserve a handful to sprinkle on top.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread evenly, sprinkle reserved walnuts on top, and tap the pan gently on the counter.
  8. Bake for 55-65 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Tent with foil after 40 minutes if browning too quickly.
  9. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Use very ripe (almost black) bananas for best sweetness and moisture. Do not overmix the batter to avoid a tough loaf. The bread tastes even better on day two. For a dairy-free version, use melted coconut oil instead of butter. For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and add an extra tablespoon of milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: banana bread, banana nut bread, one-bowl banana bread, easy banana bread, kid-friendly banana bread