Name: Banana Bread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¾ cup brown sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter (softened); 2 large eggs (beaten); 2⅓ cups mashed overripe bananas; 1 teaspoon vanilla essence; ½ teaspoon cinnamon; ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds)

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I have always found that the best recipes are the ones that turn something “old” into something “new.” Whenever my bananas sit on the counter for too long and turn dark, I don’t throw them away; I get excited! It means it is time to make my favorite banana bread recipe.

Here is why I love this guide and why you should try it:

I love making banana bread when my bananas become very ripe and sweet.
This banana bread recipe is incredibly soft, sweet, and perfect for easy home baking.
I have tested this recipe many times in my own kitchen to ensure it works for everyone.
It uses simple, halal-friendly ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen.
My family always enjoys this homemade banana bread with a warm cup of tea or coffee.

What Is Banana Bread?

In simple English, banana bread is a sweet, moist bread made using mashed overripe bananas. I like banana bread because it is very easy and forgiving for beginners. Unlike some cakes that need to be perfect, banana bread is rustic and simple.

In my experience, the secret to the best flavor is using bananas with plenty of dark spots. The darker they are, the softer and sweeter the bread becomes. Unlike many snacks, this banana bread recipe is baked, not fried, which makes it simple, clean, and a healthier alternative to store-bought donuts or pastries. I often make it when I want a quick homemade treat that makes the whole house smell amazing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I use basic pantry ingredients like flour, sugar, and butter that I already have at home.
My recipe doesn’t require an electric mixer or any special tools, just a bowl and a fork.
It stays moist for several days, so it is perfect for preparing on a Sunday and eating throughout the week.
I can easily customize it with halal add-ins like walnuts, chocolate chips, or extra spices.
My banana bread always turns out soft and flavorful, never dry or tough.

Ingredients for My Halal Banana Bread Recipe

To get the best result, I always use fresh, halal-certified ingredients. Here is my list of simple staples:

Main Ingredients (Halal & Simple)

Ingredient	Quantity	Note
All-Purpose Flour	2 cups	Provides the main structure.
Baking Soda	1 teaspoon	Helps the bread rise.
Sea Salt	1/4 teaspoon	Balances the sweetness.
Brown Sugar	3/4 cup	Gives a rich, caramel flavor.
Unsalted Butter	1/2 cup	Melted; ensure it is Halal-certified.
Large Eggs	2	Beaten; binds the dough together.
Overripe Bananas	2-1/3 cups	Mashed (about 3 to 5 bananas).

Optional Halal Add-Ins

Vanilla Essence: 1 teaspoon (must be alcohol-free).
Cinnamon Powder: 1/2 teaspoon for a warm aroma.
Chopped Nuts: 1/2 cup of walnuts or almonds for a healthy crunch.
Milk: 1/4 cup (only if your batter feels too thick).

How to Make Banana Bread (Step-by-Step instructions)

Follow my simple, first-person method for a perfect homemade loaf:

Prep the Oven:

I start by preheating my oven to 175°C (350°F). I grease my loaf pan lightly with a little bit of butter to prevent sticking.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a medium bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Mix Wet Ingredients:

In a separate large bowl, I cream the melted butter and brown sugar together. I add the beaten eggs and the mashed bananas and mix them well until smooth.

Combine:

I slowly combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture.

My Tip: I use a spoon and mix only until the flour disappears.

Bake:

I pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. I bake it for 50 to 60 minutes.

The Test:

I check if it is done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, it is ready!

Cool:

I let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before moving it to a rack. I always let it cool completely before slicing to keep the slices neat.

Tips for Perfect Bread

Ripe is Better: I always use very ripe bananas with plenty of dark spots. They are easier to mash and have the most sugar.
Don’t Overmix: I avoid overmixing the batter after adding the flour. Overmixing makes the bread tough instead of soft.
Check Early: I start checking the bread 5 minutes before the timer ends to make sure it doesn’t get too dark.
Correct Measurement: I measure my flour by spooning it into the cup and leveling it off. This prevents the bread from becoming too dense.

Storage and Reheating

Room Temperature: I store my banana bread in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to 2 days.
Fridge: In the refrigerator, I can keep it for up to 5 days.
Freezer: I often freeze individual slices in bags. They last for 2 months and are great for quick snacks!

How I Serve Banana Bread

I love serving this banana bread recipe in several ways:

With Tea: I enjoy a thick slice warm with a cup of mint tea or coffee.
Spreads: I like to spread a little bit of halal butter or a drizzle of honey on top of a toasted slice.
Breakfast: It makes a wonderful, quick breakfast slice for busy mornings.
Travel: I often pack a slice as a healthy snack for travel or school.

FAQs

Can I use oil instead of butter?

A: Yes! I sometimes use vegetable oil or coconut oil. The bread will be very moist, though it won’t have that rich buttery taste.

Is this banana bread recipe halal?

A: Yes, 100%. As long as you use alcohol-free vanilla and halal-certified butter, all ingredients are permissible.

Can I make it without eggs?

A: Yes. I have replaced the eggs with 1/2 cup of plain yogurt or an extra mashed banana before, and it turns out great.

Why is my bread too dense?

A: This usually happens if you overmix the batter or use too much flour. Try to mix just until the ingredients are combined.

Conclusion

This banana bread recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it is simple, reliable, and incredibly delicious. My experience has shown me that anyone can master this bread, even if they have never baked before. It is the perfect way to share something homemade and halal with your loved ones. I always recommend trying this recipe at least once, you might never buy store-bought bread again!