We call this “banana cake bread” in our house because one of my daughters thinks it’s a bread and the other thinks it’s a cake – the art of compromise! Either way, this is our favourite kid-approved banana bread recipe and it gets snapped up in no time.
This banana bread recipe is perfect for lunchboxes or bake sales, and it’s easily doubled. In fact, I usually make two at a time and freeze one for another day.
You may also enjoy: You’ll Love This Delicious Banana Upside Down Cake
Banana Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb very ripe bananas
- 8oz (225g) self-raising white flour
- ½ tsp salt
- 4oz (110g) butter
- 6oz (170g) castor sugar
- 4oz (110g) sultanas or raisins
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten with a fork
Method
1. Line a loaf tin with parchment paper. Preheat the oven to 170ºC for a fan oven.
2. Sieve the flour and salt into a bowl, rub in the butter, then add the sugar and sultanas/raisins.
3. Mash the bananas with a fork and add to the bowl along with the eggs. Mix the ingredients well and pour the mixture into the lined tin.
4. Place in the oven and bake for 1½ hours. Cool before removing from the tin. It keeps well for days in an airtight container.
Recipe courtesy of food writer Judy Kavanagh.
You may also enjoy: 50 Best Bake Sale Ideas to Make You the Coolest Parent Ever
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this banana bread?
Yes. It freezes very well once fully cooled – wrap it tightly and it will keep for a few weeks in the freezer. Simply defrost at room temperature before serving.
How ripe should the bananas be?
The riper, the better. Bananas with plenty of brown spots (or even fully brown skins) are sweeter and mash more easily, giving the best flavour and texture.
Can I swap the sultanas or raisins for something else?
Yes, this recipe is flexible. Chopped walnuts, chocolate chips, or simply leaving the dried fruit out altogether all work well if that suits your family’s tastes better.
How long does it keep once baked?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, it stays moist for several days, making it a handy make-ahead bake for lunchboxes or school snacks.
Related Articles
- You’ll Love This Delicious Banana Upside Down Cake
- 50 Best Bake Sale Ideas to Make You the Coolest Parent Ever
- More family-friendly recipes to try this week
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