The Best banana bread recipe
The BEST banana bread recipe! is a easy American recipe that serves 8. 200 calories per serving. Recipe by Ong Squad on YouTube.
Prep: 30 min | Cook: 1 hr | Total: 1 hr 45 min
Cost: $2.97 total, $0.37 per serving
Ingredients
- 3 pieces Ripe Bananas (medium size, peeled and mashed)
- 0.5 cup Granulated Sugar (regular white sugar)
- 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter (melted)
- 2 cup All-Purpose Flour (sifted)
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 0.25 teaspoon Salt
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it preheat while you prepare the batter.
Time: PT10M
Temperature: 350°F
Prepare Bananas
Peel the ripe bananas and mash them in a mixing bowl until mostly smooth, leaving a few small lumps for texture.
Time: PT5M
Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the melted butter and granulated sugar to the mashed bananas. Stir until fully incorporated.
Time: PT5M
Add Dry Ingredients
Sift together the all‑purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture just until no flour streaks remain.
Time: PT5M
Transfer to Loaf Pan
Grease the loaf pan with a little butter or line it with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Time: PT2M
Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Time: PT1H
Temperature: 350°F
Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Time: PT15M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 200
- Protein
- 3g
- Carbohydrates
- 30g
- Fat
- 8g
- Fiber
- 1g
Dietary info: Vegetarian
Allergens: Dairy, Gluten
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Ripe Bananas: Mashed pumpkin, Applesauce (unsweetened)
- Instead of Granulated Sugar: Coconut sugar, Brown sugar
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Margarine, Coconut oil (melted)
- Instead of All-Purpose Flour: Whole wheat flour, Gluten‑free flour blend
- Instead of Baking Soda: Baking powder (use 3 tsp)
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt, Kosher salt
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Fork or Potato Masher
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Spatula
- Loaf Pan (9×5 inch)
- Wire Rack (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Preheat the oven to the correct temperature (350°F).
- Mash bananas thoroughly but leave slight texture.
- Do not overmix after adding flour.
- Bake until a toothpick comes out clean.
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra banana flavor, add a tablespoon of banana extract.
- Mix in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for texture variation.
- Use a kitchen scale for precise flour measurement (240 g per cup).
Troubleshooting
Bread is too dense or heavy.
Make sure not to overmix after adding flour and verify that the baking soda is fresh.
Top cracks or browns too quickly.
Tent the loaf with foil after 45 minutes or lower the oven temperature by 10°F.
Bread sticks to the pan.
Generously grease the pan and line with parchment paper before pouring batter.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for 1‑2 days if kept in a sealed container.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Bake the loaf a day ahead and store it wrapped in plastic; it tastes even better after the flavors meld.
- Slice and freeze individual portions for quick snack grabs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of banana bread in American bake sale traditions?
Banana bread became popular in the United States during the 1930s Great Depression when overripe bananas were a cheap way to add sweetness and moisture to quick breads. It later turned into a staple for school bake sales and community fundraisers because it is easy to make, inexpensive, and universally liked.
What regional variations of banana bread exist within American cuisine?
In the Southern United States, banana bread often includes pecans or a swirl of cream cheese frosting. West Coast versions may add coconut or use whole‑wheat flour for a healthier twist. Some New England bakers incorporate maple syrup for a local flavor.
How is banana bread traditionally served at school bake sales in the United States?
At school bake sales, banana bread is typically sliced into 1‑inch thick pieces, sometimes brushed with a light glaze of melted butter and sugar, and displayed on a tiered stand. It is served at room temperature and often paired with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee.
What occasions or celebrations is banana bread commonly associated with in American culture?
Banana bread is a go‑to treat for informal gatherings such as potlucks, school fundraisers, and family brunches. It is also popular as a comforting snack during holidays like Thanksgiving when leftover bananas are abundant.
What authentic traditional ingredients are essential for classic American banana bread versus acceptable substitutes?
The classic recipe calls for ripe bananas, granulated sugar, melted unsalted butter, all‑purpose flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Substitutes like coconut oil for butter, whole‑wheat flour for a healthier version, or honey for sugar are acceptable but will alter flavor and texture.
What other American dishes pair well with banana bread at a bake sale?
Banana bread pairs nicely with classic American sides such as apple pie, chocolate chip cookies, and cream cheese frosting cupcakes. For a savory contrast, serve it alongside a cheese platter or a bowl of chili.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making banana bread from the Ong Squad video?
Common errors include overmixing the batter, which creates a tough crumb, using cold butter instead of melted, and not preheating the oven fully. Also, failing to test doneness with a toothpick can result in an under‑baked center.
Why does this banana bread recipe use baking soda instead of baking powder?
Baking soda reacts with the natural acidity of ripe bananas, providing a quick rise and a tender crumb. Baking powder would give a slower rise and a slightly different texture, which is why the Ong Squad recipe opts for soda.
Can I make this banana bread ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, the loaf can be baked a day ahead. Cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and store at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to four days. For longer storage, slice and freeze the pieces.
What does the YouTube channel Ong Squad specialize in?
The YouTube channel Ong Squad focuses on quick, family‑friendly recipes and cooking hacks for everyday meals, often featuring simple desserts and snack ideas perfect for school events and busy households.
How does the YouTube channel Ong Squad's approach to American comfort baking differ from other cooking channels?
Ong Squad emphasizes minimal ingredient lists, clear step‑by‑step narration, and relatable kitchen scenarios, making comfort baking feel accessible to beginners, whereas many other channels may use more elaborate techniques or exotic ingredients.
Last updated: August 30, 2026
