Small Batch Banana Bread Recipe

Name: Small Batch Banana Bread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 2 loaves
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 1 cup all-purpose flour

Highlighted under: Daily Recipes

This Small Batch Banana Bread Recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy a delicious treat without the leftovers. Moist, flavorful, and made with ripe bananas, it's the ideal way to satisfy your cravings.

Created by

Gillian Sykes

Last updated on 2026-01-03T02:29:35.040Z

This Small Batch Banana Bread is not only easy to make, but it's also a great way to use up overripe bananas. With its warm spices and sweet aroma, it's a comforting treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. Bake a couple of loaves to share or enjoy them all for yourself!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Perfectly moist and flavorful with a hint of cinnamon
Quick and easy to prepare in just a few minutes
Ideal portion for small households or to enjoy fresh

The Benefits of Using Ripe Bananas

Ripe bananas are the star ingredient in this Small Batch Banana Bread Recipe, and for good reason. As bananas ripen, their natural sugars develop, providing a sweeter and more flavorful base for your bread. This natural sweetness allows you to use less sugar in your recipe, making it a healthier option without sacrificing taste.

In addition to flavor, ripe bananas contribute to the moistness of the bread. Their soft texture blends seamlessly with the other ingredients, ensuring a tender crumb. Incorporating overripe bananas is a wonderful way to reduce food waste and enjoy a delicious treat at the same time.

Why Small Batches Are Ideal

Small batch recipes are becoming increasingly popular, especially among those living alone or in smaller households. This Small Batch Banana Bread Recipe yields just enough for a satisfying snack or breakfast without overwhelming your kitchen with leftovers. It’s the perfect portion to enjoy fresh, ensuring that every slice is moist and delicious.

Moreover, baking in smaller quantities allows for more variety in your baking endeavors. You can easily whip up different flavors or types of bread throughout the week without the worry of excess. This flexibility makes small batch baking a fun and practical choice for any home cook.

Tips for Perfect Banana Bread

To achieve the best results with your banana bread, ensure that your bananas are truly ripe. Look for bananas that are heavily speckled or even fully brown. This indicates maximum sweetness and flavor. If you don’t have ripe bananas on hand, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag for a day or two.

Another tip is to avoid overmixing your batter. Mixing just until combined will help your banana bread maintain a light and fluffy texture. If you notice lumps in the batter, that's perfectly fine; they will bake out during the cooking process. Remember, a little bit of care in the mixing stage goes a long way in achieving that perfect loaf.

Ingredients

Banana Bread Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted butter
1/2 cup sugar
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
1 cup all-purpose flour

Mix the ingredients well to ensure a smooth batter before baking.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a small loaf pan.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with the melted butter. Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well blended.

Add Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture, then add the flour. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your freshly baked banana bread warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in chopped nuts or chocolate chips before baking.

Storing Your Banana Bread

Once your banana bread has cooled completely, you may want to store it for later enjoyment. To keep it fresh, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. Properly stored, it will last for about 3 to 4 days at room temperature.

If you want to extend its shelf life even further, consider freezing your banana bread. Simply slice it before freezing and wrap each slice individually. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever the craving strikes without having to thaw the whole loaf.

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread is delicious on its own, but there are numerous ways to enhance its flavor. Consider spreading a thin layer of butter or cream cheese on a warm slice for added richness. You can also serve it with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a sweet touch.

For a fun twist, try pairing your banana bread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert. Adding nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking can also elevate your banana bread experience, giving it that extra crunch or sweetness.

Customization Ideas

One of the best aspects of banana bread is its versatility. While this recipe is delightful as it is, feel free to experiment with add-ins that suit your taste. Walnuts, pecans, or even chocolate chips can add a delightful surprise to each bite, making your banana bread even more enjoyable.

You can also play around with spices. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom can introduce a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the bananas beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating a swirl of peanut butter or Nutella into the batter for a unique flavor combination that your family will love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, thaw the frozen bananas and mash them before using them in the recipe.

→ How should I store the leftover banana bread?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in a larger loaf pan for about 10-15 minutes longer.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg as a substitute.