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Perfect Small-Batch Banana Bread for Two

small-batch banana bread - featured image

This small-batch banana bread is carefully developed to give you the perfect texture and flavor in a single-serving portion, without any waste. It’s a recipe for a quiet afternoon, for using up what you have, for baking without the pressure of sharing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium very ripe bananas
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Line a 5ร—3-inch loaf pan with a strip of parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the two long sides. Lightly grease the exposed ends of the pan with a little butter or non-stick spray.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, peel the bananas and mash them with a fork until mostly smooth. A few small lumps are okay.
  3. To the mashed bananas, add the melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until fully combined and slightly glossy.
  4. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold together until no streaks of dry flour remain. Do not over-mix.
  6. Scrape the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Optionally, sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of extra granulated sugar on top for a crunchy crust.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is deep golden brown, a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, and the loaf springs back when lightly pressed.
  8. Let the bread cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Then use the parchment sling to lift it out and transfer to the rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

For best results, use very ripe (heavily spotted or mostly brown) bananas. Do not over-mix the batter. The loaf can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: small batch banana bread, banana bread for two, single serving banana bread, easy banana bread, moist banana bread