Easy Banana Bread Recipe

Banana bread is one of the easiest and most satisfying homemade treats you can bake. Whether you’re a beginner or someone who wants a quick, fuss-free recipe, this 3-ingredient version delivers delicious results without the need for mixers, long prep time, or complicated steps.

Using just mashed bananas, condensed milk, and self-rising flour, you’ll get a soft, moist loaf that’s naturally sweet and full of flavor. This guide walks you through the entire process—plus tips and answers to common questions—to help you create perfect banana bread every single time.

1. Easy Banana Bread Recipe ( Yield: 12 Serving )

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups bananas, mashed
• 3/4 cup condensed milk (coconut condensed milk used, or any type you prefer)
• 1 1/2 cups self-rising flour, sifted

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This step ensures the banana bread bakes evenly and doesn’t stick.

Mash the Bananas

Peel the bananas and place them in a large bowl. Mash them with a fork until smooth with minimal chunks. The more ripe your bananas are—deep yellow with brown spots—the sweeter and more flavorful your banana bread will be.

Add the Condensed Milk

Pour in the condensed milk and mix until the bananas and milk are fully blended. Using coconut condensed milk adds a subtle tropical flavor, but traditional sweetened condensed milk works perfectly, too.

Sift and Add the Flour

Add the sifted self-rising flour gradually into the banana mixture. Stir gently using a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing—stop as soon as no dry flour remains. Overmixing can make the bread dense instead of soft.

Pour Batter into the Pan

Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to help it bake evenly. The batter will be thick and creamy.

Bake the Banana Bread

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, loosely tent it with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling helps the loaf set and makes slicing easier. Serve warm, at room temperature, or lightly toasted with butter.

2. Tips for Perfect Homemade Banana Bread

Creating perfect banana bread doesn’t require special skills, but a few small steps can take your loaf from good to exceptional:

Use the ripest bananas possible.

Bananas with dark brown spots are ideal because they mash easily and bring natural sweetness and moisture.

Measure accurately.

Too much flour can make your bread dry. Sifting before measuring helps maintain the correct texture.

Don’t skip sifting the flour.

It removes clumps and incorporates air, making your loaf lighter and softer.

Avoid overmixing the batter.

Stir only until the ingredients come together. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to a tough, rubbery loaf.

Check doneness early.

Every oven heats differently. Begin checking at the 45-minute mark to prevent overbaking.

Enhance with optional add-ins.

Even though this is a 3-ingredient recipe, you can make add-ins optional: chocolate chips, cinnamon, chopped nuts, or coconut flakes without altering the base recipe.

Let the bread cool before slicing.

Warm banana bread can crumble. Cooling firms the loaf and gives cleaner cuts.

3. Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use if I don’t have self-rising flour?

You can make your own by mixing 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 1/4 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Whisk well before using.

Can I use frozen bananas in this recipe?

Yes. Thaw frozen bananas completely, drain excess liquid, and mash as usual. Frozen bananas are often sweeter, which works wonderfully here.

How do I store leftover banana bread?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. It also freezes well for up to 3 months when wrapped tightly.

Why is my banana bread dense instead of fluffy?

Density usually comes from overmixing the batter or using flour packed too tightly. Always combine ingredients gently and sift the flour beforehand.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Double everything and divide between two loaf pans. Baking time should remain similar, but check for doneness near the end.

Does coconut condensed milk change the flavor a lot?

Coconut condensed milk adds a mild coconut note that pairs beautifully with banana. If you prefer a classic taste, use regular sweetened condensed milk.

4. Nutrition Information

This 3-ingredient banana bread recipe proves that delicious homemade baking doesn’t need to be complicated. With ripe bananas, creamy condensed milk, and self-rising flour, you can create a moist, flavorful loaf in under an hour. It’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or sharing with family and friends.

Whether you’re new to baking or simply love quick, no-fuss recipes, this easy banana bread will become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the comforting aroma and taste of freshly baked banana bread anytime you crave it.