Betty Crocker Banana Bread

When it comes to classic comfort baking, few treats rival the timeless appeal of Betty Crocker Banana Bread. This beloved recipe has been a staple in kitchens across the world, celebrated for its moist texture, rich banana flavor, and simple ingredients. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a newbie looking to whip up something delicious, this banana bread hits all the right notes. With just a handful of everyday pantry staples, you can create a loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a cozy dessert. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make this crowd-pleaser right at home.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Moist and tender crumb: Thanks to the ripe bananas and buttermilk, this bread is wonderfully soft and never dry.
• Simple ingredients: No fancy or hard-to-find items here—just what you likely have on hand already.
• Customizable add-ins: Toss in nuts or chocolate chips to tailor the loaf to your taste.
• Versatile and forgiving: Easy to make, even if you’re new to baking, and it adapts well to tweaks.
• Classic flavor: That familiar Betty Crocker Banana Bread taste that brings back warm memories.

Ingredient Checklist

• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar – for just the right amount of sweetness
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (salted butter is fine too) – adds richness and moisture
• 2 large eggs – bind everything together and give structure
• 1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (approximately 4-5 medium bananas) – the star ingredient
• 1/2 cup buttermilk – enhances moisture and tenderness
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – adds warm, aromatic depth
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – the base of the bread
• 1 tsp baking soda – helps the bread rise
• 1 tsp salt – balances sweetness and enhances flavor
• 1 cup chopped nuts or semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional) – for added texture and indulgence

Gear Up: What to Grab

• 9×5 inch loaf pan: The classic size for banana bread.
• Mixing bowls: At least two – one for wet ingredients and one for dry.
• Electric mixer or sturdy whisk: To cream butter and sugar and mix batter thoroughly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements keep your bread consistent.
• Spatula: For folding in flour and add-ins gently.
• Cooling rack: Allows the bread to cool evenly after baking.
• Fork or potato masher: To mash the ripe bananas perfectly.

Betty Crocker Banana Bread in Steps

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer or whisk to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key to a tender crumb.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The eggs help bind the ingredients and give the bread structure.

Step 4: Mix in Bananas, Buttermilk, and Vanilla

Stir in the mashed bananas, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. The bananas should be very ripe for maximum flavor and moisture.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures your leavening and salt are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Fold Dry Ingredients into Wet

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your bread light and tender.

Step 7: Add Nuts or Chocolate Chips (Optional)

If you want some extra texture and flavor, fold in your choice of chopped nuts or semi-sweet chocolate chips now.

Step 8: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and savor with your favorite spread or simply on its own.

Warm & Cool Weather Spins

• Warm Weather: Serve slices toasted with a smear of cream cheese or a drizzle of honey for a refreshing twist.
• Cool Weather: Enjoy warm slices straight from the oven, topped with a pat of butter or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cozy treat.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter to infuse warm, seasonal spices.
• Top with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice for a bright finish.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

• Use bananas that are very ripe with lots of brown spots for the best flavor and moistness.
• Don’t substitute the buttermilk with regular milk without adding an acid (like lemon juice) to mimic its acidity.
• If you prefer a less sweet bread, reduce the sugar to 1 cup, but keep in mind this will affect the texture slightly.
• To avoid soggy bottoms, make sure your bananas are not overly wet when mashed.
• Let the bread cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbling and to enhance flavor development.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

This banana bread is fantastic for preparing ahead of time. You can bake it up to 3 days in advance and store it tightly wrapped at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze the cooled bread wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before serving. You can also slice before freezing to enjoy individually thawed portions.

Reader Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes! You can substitute whole wheat flour, but use 2 1/4 cups instead of 2 1/2 cups to keep the texture soft. The bread will have a nuttier flavor and denser crumb.

What if I don’t have buttermilk on hand?

Simply make a quick buttermilk substitute by adding 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1/2 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use a dairy-free butter substitute and replace the buttermilk with a plant-based milk plus an acid like lemon juice or vinegar to maintain the tang and moisture.

How do I store leftover banana bread?

Wrap leftover banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze as described above.

Explore More

• Classic Betty Crocker Banana Bread Recipe
• Pinch of Yum’s Moist Banana Bread
• Minimalist Baker’s Simple Banana Bread
• Sally’s Baking Addiction Best Banana Bread

Next Steps

Now that you have the classic Betty Crocker Banana Bread recipe down, it’s time to get baking! Experiment with your favorite mix-ins or try some of the seasonal spins mentioned above. Share your delicious results with friends and family or gift a loaf to brighten someone’s day. This recipe is a wonderful way to use up ripe bananas and fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of homemade baked goodness. Happy baking!

There’s something truly special about a slice of perfectly baked banana bread—moist, flavorful, and comforting. Betty Crocker Banana Bread stands the test of time for good reason, and now it’s yours to enjoy whenever the craving strikes.

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