The Ultimate Banana Bread with Brown Butter Recipe

Recipe By:
Lily Hartwell

The smell of warm banana bread wafting through your home can turn even the grumpiest cat into a happy purr machine. This Banana Bread with Brown Butter is not just a treat; it’s an experience. Imagine biting into a slice that’s golden brown on the outside and soft on the inside, with flavors that dance on your taste buds like a toddler at a birthday party.

Delicious Banana Bread with Brown Butter

Every time I bake this delightful loaf, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen where flour flew like confetti and laughter filled the air. We would wait impatiently as the heavenly aroma enveloped us, promising that something magical was about to emerge from the oven. This banana bread is perfect for cozy mornings or as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This banana bread is incredibly easy to make—perfect for beginners or busy folks alike.
  • The rich flavor of brown butter elevates it to gourmet status without extra fuss.
  • It looks and smells fantastic when served fresh from the oven.
  • Enjoy it plain or jazz it up with nuts or chocolate chips!

I once brought this banana bread to a potluck and watched as people turned into slice-stealing ninjas—seriously, I had to guard my plate like it was filled with gold.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Ripe Bananas: Use 3-4 overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture; they should be speckled brown for optimal flavor.
  • Unsalted Butter: Choose high-quality unsalted butter for browning; it helps control salt levels in your recipe.
  • Granulated Sugar: Regular white granulated sugar adds sweetness; you can also mix in some brown sugar for added richness.
  • Eggs: Two large eggs enhance moisture; make sure they’re at room temperature for better mixing.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Standard all-purpose flour works best; sift it before measuring for accurate results.
  • Baking Soda: This leavening agent ensures your bread rises perfectly and has a light texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds depth; avoid imitation for a more authentic flavor profile.
  • Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all flavors—don’t skip this step!
  • Nuts or Chocolate Chips (optional): Add walnuts or semi-sweet chocolate chips if you want extra texture and flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray or butter to ensure an easy release.

Brown the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter while stirring often until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Be careful not to burn it!

Mash Those Bananas!: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork until smooth but slightly chunky. You want those sweet bits hiding in your loaf!

Add Sugar and Eggs: Pour in the browned butter (let it cool slightly), granulated sugar, and eggs into the mashed bananas. Mix well until everything is fully combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients while gently folding until just combined—don’t overmix!

Add Extras (if desired): If you’re feeling adventurous, fold in any optional nuts or chocolate chips now for an extra treat.

Bake Away!: Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool before removing from pan.

This banana bread will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that makes waiting almost unbearable!

Now you’re ready to dive into this deliciously moist Banana Bread with Brown Butter that brings warmth—not just from its taste but also from cherished memories shared over each slice. Enjoy every bite!

You Must Know

  •  Use ripe bananas for a sweeter, richer flavor that makes your banana bread irresistible.
  • Brown the butter until it smells nutty; this adds depth and complexity to your banana bread.
  • Don’t overmix the batter—fold gently to keep your banana bread fluffy and tender. 

 

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the butter and letting it cool slightly. Next, mash your ripe bananas before mixing in the wet ingredients, followed by dry ingredients for an even blend.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to add chocolate chips or walnuts for extra texture and flavor. You can also experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist on this classic recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store your banana bread wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to four days. To reheat, pop slices in the microwave for about 10 seconds or toast them lightly for that fresh-baked taste.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Always use room temperature eggs to create a smoother batter, leading to better texture.
  • Avoid using overly green bananas; they won’t provide the sweetness you need for perfect banana bread.
  • Let your banana bread cool completely before slicing to avoid squishing.

I remember baking this banana bread on a rainy day when friends unexpectedly dropped by. The aroma filled my home, and we all enjoyed warm slices together, chatting and laughing like old times.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen bananas for banana bread with brown butter?

Absolutely! Just thaw them, drain excess moisture, then mash as usual.

How do I know when my banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends for delicious results.

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Delicious Banana Bread with Brown Butter

Banana Bread with Brown Butter

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Delight in this moist Banana Bread with Brown Butter, a perfect blend of sweet and nutty flavors that brings comfort to every slice.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 ripe bananas (about 1.5 cups mashed)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (browned)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Optional: 1/2 cup walnuts or chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a medium saucepan, brown the unsalted butter over medium heat until golden and nutty; let cool slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth but slightly chunky.
  4. Mix in the browned butter, sugar, and eggs until fully combined.
  5. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt; gradually fold into the wet mixture until just combined (do not overmix).
  6. If desired, fold in walnuts or chocolate chips.
  7. Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool before slicing.

Notes

  •  For added flavor, you can mix in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
  •  Store banana bread wrapped at room temperature for up to 4 days.
  •  To reheat, microwave slices for about 10 seconds or lightly toast them.
  • Author: Sophie
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 70 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 33g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

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