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Have you ever found yourself staring at a lonely banana sitting on your kitchen counter, hoping for inspiration? That’s exactly how this journey into the world of Easy One-Banana Banana Bread began! With its intoxicating aroma of warm spices and the inviting crunch of cinnamon-sugar topping, this recipe is a cozy embrace in loaf form.

This delightful banana bread strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and warmth, making it an irresistible treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Imagine sinking your teeth into a moist, tender slice alongside a steaming cup of coffee—it’s pure bliss. Not only does it use that single, overripe banana you’ve been avoiding, but it also results in a small batch loaf that’s easy to whip up and won’t leave you with leftovers to languish on your countertop.

So, let’s turn that neglected banana into a deliciously rewarding baking experience! Grab your mixing bowl, and let’s dive into creating something that’s not only easy but exceptionally satisfying.

Why is Easy One-Banana Banana Bread so special?

Simplicity: The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforwardness, needing just one banana and simple ingredients.

Moist and Tender: Enjoy a loaf that’s incredibly moist and tender, thanks to that magical overripe banana.

Perfect for Small Cravings: This small-batch recipe eliminates waste and ensures you get your banana fix without the leftovers.

Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins, like nuts or chocolate chips, to personalize each loaf.

Quick to Make: In just under an hour, you can whip up a delightful treat that’s sure to impress!

Get ready to savor your creation with a cup of coffee, making cozy morning moments even more special!

Easy One-Banana Banana Bread Ingredients

For the Batter

Sugar – Provides sweetness; adjust based on the banana’s ripeness for the ideal taste.
Flour – Serves as the bread’s structure; use all-purpose flour for consistent results.
Nutmeg – Adds a warm spice note; freshly grated nutmeg elevates the flavor.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Essential leavening agents; ensure they are fresh for effective rising.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; adjust based on dietary needs.
Banana – Keys to moisture and sweetness; opt for very overripe bananas with brown spots—no substitution needed!
Egg – Binds ingredients and adds richness; substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option.
Butter – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s melted and cooled, or swap for vegetable oil for a dairy-free alternative.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; pure vanilla extract works best for a delightful taste.
Cinnamon – Adds warmth to the topping; adjust the quantity based on your preference for spice.

For the Topping

Sugar – Used to create a crunchy layer; combine with cinnamon to enhance flavor and texture.
Cinnamon – Sprinkle for an extra touch of warmth; feel free to increase or decrease to suit your taste.

With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to making the easiest, most delightful Easy One-Banana Banana Bread. Happy baking!

How to Make Easy One-Banana Banana Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×4 inch loaf pan. This ensures that your bread will easily release from the pan once it’s baked, creating a lovely presentation.
Whisk together the dry ingredients: In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg, then set it aside. This helps distribute all the leavening agents evenly in your batter.
Mash the overripe banana in another bowl until mostly smooth. Add the egg and vanilla, stirring to combine. The riper the banana, the easier it will mash, bringing out that sweet flavor we love.
Mix in the melted butter until well incorporated. Then, gently fold in the dry ingredients and sugar, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few flour streaks are perfectly fine for a tender loaf!
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture generously over the batter for the classic crunchy topping.
Bake for 30–38 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick. It should come out with a few moist crumbs for that perfect texture. Keep an eye on it after 30 minutes, as smaller loaves may bake faster.
Cool in the pan for 15–20 minutes before transferring your banana bread to a wire rack. This cooling time allows it to set, making slicing easier and preventing it from falling apart.

Optional: Spread a little butter on warm slices for extra taste.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Easy One-Banana Banana Bread

Room Temperature: Keep your banana bread wrapped in plastic or in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer, store the bread in the fridge for up to a week, but note that it may dry out slightly. Make sure it’s sealed tightly to prevent moisture loss.

Freezer: For longer storage, tightly wrap the bread in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating: To reheat, microwave slices for about 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for that fresh-baked experience!

What to Serve with Easy One-Banana Banana Bread?

Imagine the joy of enjoying your freshly baked banana bread alongside delightful accompaniments that enhance every comforting bite.

Creamy Butter: Spread a generous pat of butter on warm slices to amplify the richness. The melt-in-your-mouth experience is irresistible!
Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer flavorful Greek yogurt with berries and a drizzle of honey. This adds a refreshing contrast to the warm bread.
Tropical Fruit Salad: A mix of pineapple, mango, and kiwi offers a bright and zesty balance, complementing the sweet flavors of the banana bread.
Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee elevates breakfast, enhancing the comforting flavors of the banana bread. This classic pairing is hard to resist.
Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey adds a touch of sweetness and moisture, enhancing the already delicious bread.
Ice Cream Scoop: For a luxurious twist, serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of temperatures creates an indulgent dessert experience.
Nutty Sprinkling: Top with toasted walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft texture of the loaf.
Chai or Herbal Tea: A steaming cup of chai or soothing herbal tea complements the spiced notes in the banana bread, making for a cozy snack.
Scrambled Eggs: For a heartier breakfast, pair with fluffy scrambled eggs seasoned with herbs. This savory option rounds out your meal while balancing sweetness.

Expert Tips for Easy One-Banana Banana Bread

Choose Ripe Bananas: Use very overripe bananas with brown spots, as they provide optimal sweetness and moisture for your Easy One-Banana Banana Bread.
Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing the batter; stop mixing when no large streaks of flour remain to prevent a dense loaf.
Watch Baking Time: Check your banana bread at 30 minutes for doneness, as smaller loaves bake faster. The toothpick should have a few moist crumbs.
Cool Properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 15–20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack; this helps maintain its structure when slicing.
Customize Variations: Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for added flavor and texture in your Easy One-Banana Banana Bread!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy One-Banana Banana Bread preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, nutmeg) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, mash your overripe banana and combine it with the egg and vanilla, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours to cut your morning prep time in half. When you’re ready to bake, simply mix in the melted butter, fold in the prepared dry ingredients, and bake as directed. By prepping ahead, your finished banana bread will be just as delicious with minimal effort, making it ideal for quick breakfasts or snacks!

Easy One-Banana Banana Bread Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this delicious banana bread your own!

Nutty Add-In: Toss in 1/3 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. It adds a beautiful texture contrast that complements the softness of the bread.
Choco Delight: Mix in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips, dark or milk, for an indulgent twist. The melty chocolate chunks create a heavenly surprise in every bite!
Dried Fruit Twist: Incorporate 1/3 cup of dried cranberries or raisins to introduce a sweet and chewy element. These little bursts of flavor harmonize beautifully with the moist bread.
Flax Egg Substitute: If you’re looking for a vegan option, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). This swap ensures your bread stays wonderfully moist while catering to dietary preferences.
Spice Exploration: Experiment with a teaspoon of cardamom or ginger powder for an unexpected yet delightful flavor. Just a hint of these spices can elevate your banana bread to new heights!
Apple Sauce Alternative: For a healthier variant, swap half of the sugar with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce. This reduces added sugar while maintaining moisture and sweetness.
Zesty Citrus: Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the batter for a refreshing zesty pop. This simple addition brightens the flavors and brings a whole new level of enjoyment!
Cinnamon Roll Twist: Swirl in a mixture of 1 tablespoon of cinnamon and 2 tablespoons of sugar before baking for a delightful cinnamon roll effect. Each slice will offer a surprising burst of warm spices!

With these variations, you’ll never tire of your Easy One-Banana Banana Bread. Enjoy the adventure of baking!

Easy One-Banana Banana Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of banana should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, use a very overripe banana with plenty of brown spots. This ripeness signifies optimal sweetness and moisture, which is key to achieving that moist, tender loaf. If you happen to have bananas that are still somewhat green, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a brown paper bag at room temperature for a day or two.

How should I store leftover banana bread?
Absolutely, to keep your Easy One-Banana Banana Bread fresh, wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. At room temperature, it should stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you’d like to enjoy it beyond that, the refrigerator can extend its shelf life to about a week, but do note it may lose some moisture. For long-term storage, freeze it tightly wrapped for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze the Easy One-Banana Banana Bread?
You can definitely freeze this delicious banana bread! To do this, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring no air can get in, which prevents freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Reheat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or pop them in the oven for that freshly baked flavor.

What should I do if my banana bread is too dense?
Very good question! If you find your banana bread is turning out dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter. Aim to fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined; it’s perfectly okay if there are a few visible streaks of flour. Additionally, ensuring your leavening agents like baking powder and baking soda are fresh can help with proper rising. Finally, keep an eye on the baking time, as baking it too long can also lead to a dense loaf.

Can I modify this recipe for dietary needs?
Certainly! If you need to cater to dietary restrictions, you can easily make a few adjustments. For a vegan version, simply replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes). You can also substitute butter with vegetable oil or applesauce to make it dairy-free. Just remember that the texture may change slightly, but it will still be delicious!

Can I use a different type of flour?
Absolutely! While all-purpose flour works best for this Easy One-Banana Banana Bread, you can also experiment with whole wheat flour or gluten-free blends. If you opt for whole wheat flour, consider using 1/4 cup less than the recipe calls for, as it tends to absorb more moisture. This will ensure your banana bread remains tender and not too dense. Enjoy your baking adventures!