There’s something undeniably nostalgic about a loaf of homemade banana bread.
I remember the smell wafting through my grandmother’s kitchen — buttery, sweet, and warm.
This recipe brings that memory back every time, and it’s so simple yet deeply satisfying.
Whether it’s for a cozy breakfast or a comforting afternoon snack, this banana bread with butter and vanilla is always a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Incredibly moist and flavorful with just the right sweetness
Uses simple pantry ingredients you probably already have
A fantastic way to use overripe bananas
Ready in just over an hour — no mixer required!
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Bananas: The riper the better for natural sweetness and moisture.
Butter: Adds richness and depth.
Sugar: White sugar balances the banana flavor.
Eggs: Bind everything together.
Flour & Baking Powder: The base for a perfect rise.
Vanilla Essence: For a fragrant, warm undertone.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use super ripe bananas — black spots are a good sign.
Don’t overmix the batter after adding flour — mix just until combined.
Grease your loaf pan well or use parchment to avoid sticking.
Let the loaf cool at least 10 minutes before slicing for the best texture.
How to Make Banana Bread with Butter and Vanilla
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use a whisk or spoon to cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Bananas, Eggs, and Vanilla
Mash the bananas well and mix in the eggs and vanilla essence.
Combine this wet mixture with the butter-sugar mix until smooth.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together flour and baking powder.
This step helps keep your bread light.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture.
Stir until everything is just combined — don’t overmix!
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the bread rest in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Slice and enjoy warm or at room temp!
What to Serve It With
A pat of salted butter or cream cheese
A drizzle of honey or nut butter
Fresh fruit and coffee for a balanced breakfast
Variations / Substitutions
Add chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for texture.
Swap white sugar for brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Use whole wheat flour for a heartier version.
Stir in cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy twist.
Storage & Leftovers
Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Slice before freezing for easy thaw-and-serve portions.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes! Thaw and drain them before mashing.
Why is my banana bread dense?
You may have overmixed the batter — fold gently after adding the flour.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Absolutely! Try using 3/4 cup if you prefer a less sweet loaf.
Do I need to use vanilla essence?
It adds a nice touch, but you can skip it or replace with almond extract.
How do I know when it’s fully baked?
A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
Can I make muffins instead?
Yes, bake in muffin tins for about 18–22 minutes at 350°F.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Totally! Kids love the soft texture and naturally sweet banana flavor.
Final Thoughts
This banana bread with butter and vanilla is the kind of recipe that never goes out of style.
It’s simple, comforting, and always brings a little extra joy to my day.
Whether you’re baking for loved ones or treating yourself, this loaf delivers that homemade magic in every bite.
Moist Banana Bread
Ingredients
Method
- Cream together the butter and sugar.
- Crush the bananas, then add the eggs and vanilla essence. Mix well.
- Sift the flour and baking powder together.
- Add dry ingredients to the banana mixture and stir until combined.
- Pour into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 60 minutes.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/moist-banana-bread/
Notes
- Use overripe bananas with plenty of brown spots for the best flavor and moisture.
- Want extra texture? Stir in a handful of chopped walnuts or chocolate chips.
- This loaf stores well and tastes even better the next day!
