Paula Deen’s Banana Bread Recipe Made Easy and Delicious

If you’re a fan of classic Southern baking, then you’ve likely heard of Paula Deen’s famous banana bread recipe. This moist, flavorful bread is the perfect way to use up ripe bananas and fill your kitchen with the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon and vanilla.

Whether you’re making it for a cozy breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a sweet treat after dinner, Paula Deen’s banana bread never disappoints. With its tender crumb and subtle sweetness, it’s a crowd-pleaser that feels like a hug in bread form.

What makes this banana bread truly special is its simplicity combined with rich flavor. Paula’s recipe uses basic pantry ingredients but results in a loaf that’s perfectly balanced—sweet but not overpowering, with just the right amount of moisture.

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginners. If you’ve been searching for a reliable banana bread recipe that delivers consistently excellent results, you’ve found it here!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out because it uses simple, everyday ingredients that you probably already have on hand. The combination of mashed bananas, eggs, sugar, and butter creates a moist texture that stays fresh for days.

Unlike some banana breads that can be dry or overly dense, Paula Deen’s version strikes a perfect balance.

Moreover, this banana bread is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it plain, or jazz it up by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even a streusel topping.

It’s also a great recipe to customize with your favorite flavors, making it a staple you’ll return to again and again.

Finally, it’s a recipe that’s both comforting and nostalgic, reminding many of family breakfasts and cozy afternoons. If you love baking and crave that homemade touch, this banana bread will quickly become a beloved favorite.

Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional but recommended)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Fork or potato masher for mashing bananas
• Spatula
• Cooling rack

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray and set aside.
2. Mash the bananas in a large mixing bowl using a fork or potato masher until smooth but still slightly chunky.
3. Cream the butter and sugar together in a separate bowl using an electric mixer or whisk until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition.
5. Mix in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until combined.
6. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
7. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula just until combined. Do not overmix.
8. If using nuts, fold them in now for added crunch and flavor.
9. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
10. Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips & Variations

Tip: Use bananas that are very ripe with lots of brown spots for maximum sweetness and flavor.

Variation: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolaty twist.

Variation: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier, heartier bread.

Tip: For a moist crumb, avoid overmixing the batter once the flour is added.

Variation: Sprinkle a cinnamon sugar topping before baking for a sweet crunchy crust.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Paula Deen’s banana bread is delicious on its own, but it can be elevated with a few simple additions. Try spreading a pat of butter or cream cheese on a warm slice for a rich, creamy contrast.

For a decadent treat, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with honey.

This banana bread also pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect choice for breakfast or afternoon tea. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit and yogurt.

If you’re feeling adventurous, use the banana bread as a base for a bread pudding or French toast variation—the possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

Paula Deen’s banana bread is more than just a recipe—it’s a comforting tradition that brings warmth and joy to any kitchen. Its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and incredible moistness make it a timeless favorite.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this banana bread will give you reliable, delicious results every time.

Beyond its taste, this recipe invites you to get creative with add-ins and toppings, making it your own. So next time you have ripe bananas sitting on the counter, don’t hesitate to whip up this classic loaf.

Your family and friends will thank you!

For more delightful baking inspirations, check out our other favorite recipes like Paula Deen’s Classic Buttermilk Biscuits, Southern Peach Cobbler, and Old-Fashioned Pecan Pie.

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