Who doesn’t love banana bread? I know I do, but sometimes, your recipe has many ingredients. That may be fine at times, but other times, you want the (almost) instant gratification of making something quick. This is my easy 3-ingredient banana bread recipe.
Banana bread is a wonderfully simple way to make quick bread from overripe bananas.
If you are just here for the recipe, you can press the button underneath to be automagically transported to the recipe:
Banana bread is a classic baked good that people have enjoyed for over a century. Its history can be traced back to the 1930s, during the Great Depression in the United States, when families sought ways to use overripe bananas. The recipe for banana bread quickly became popular as it was an affordable and easy way to make a delicious and filling treat.
The first banana bread recipe was published in a cookbook by Pillsbury in 1933. It called for simple ingredients such as flour, sugar, eggs, and bananas. The recipe quickly spread and became a staple in many households nationwide.
It became popular during World War II
During World War II, when rationing was in place, banana bread became even more popular as it could be made without many scarce ingredients. People would often swap recipes and experiment with different variations of the classic recipe, including adding nuts, chocolate chips, or other fruits.
In the 1960s and 70s, banana bread became a staple in cafes and bakeries and was often served as a breakfast or brunch item. It gained a reputation as a comfort food and a symbol of home baking, reminding people of their childhood and family gatherings.
Today, banana bread is still a beloved baked good that is enjoyed by people all over the world. It has become a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs, with options for gluten-free, vegan, and paleo versions. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation make it a go-to recipe for novice and experienced bakers.
The batter in this banana bread recipe
The base batter for this banana bread couldn’t be simpler. You only need three ingredients: ripe bananas, condensed milk, and self-rising flour.
It only takes 2 minutes to mix it. It’ll take your oven longer to heat.
Self-rising flour? What’s that? I can’t get that
So you live where you can’t get self-rising flour, or your store doesn’t carry it. Don’t worry. I’ve created a tool that can easily calculate how much all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt you need to make your own.
Go to the self-rising flour calculator and calculate how much you need for the recipe. Then, you’ll have leftover flour.
Vegan or gluten-free? No problem
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If you want to make the base recipe vegan, you can substitute the condensed milk for condensed coconutmilk. Combine 8 dl/3½ cups of full-fat coconut milk and 210g/1 cup of sugar to make it yourself. Put it in a pan and let it simmer until it’s reduced by half, about 35-45 minutes. Remember to stir frequently to avoid scorching.
If you want to make the recipe gluten-free, substitute the flour for a gluten-free alternative, either a self-rising version or make it yourself using gluten-free flour and the calculator I mentioned above.
What other things can I add to this banana bread?
Nuts: walnuts, pecans, hazelnuts, or whatever nuts you love.
Chocolate: chips, chunks, drops, I prefer the drops for this banana bread.
Spices: cinnamon and vanilla both go perfectly with banana.
Wanna be fancy? Toasted poppy seeds are an amazing inclusion for this bread. Trust me!
How do I store this banana bread?
Short term storage
It’ll stay good for a couple of days at room temperature. Wrap it in aluminum foil or put it in a zip-lock bag. Don’t be tempted to put it in the refrigerator. It’ll dry out.
Long term storage
This bread freezes well for long-term storage and is good for at least 3 months. You can freeze it whole, but I like to cut it into slices, so I can thaw the number of slices I need. Put it in a zip-lock bag and remove as much air as possible. This will prevent freezer burn.
Conclusion of this banana bread recipe
So what makes a perfect banana bread?
The amazing taste of ripe bananas
Lots of moisture
Extra things, like nuts, chocolate, and spices. I know, I know, then it’s not 3 ingredients anymore.
Butter. Mmmh… Butter!
Please share this banana bread recipe on social media
This is my 3-ingredient banana bread recipe. If you like the recipe, please consider sharing it with like-minded bread or cake lovers on social media.
If you make it and post it on Instagram, please tag me as @foodgeek.dk so I can see it. That would make me very happy.
