This 4-ingredient banana bread is a total game-changer, friends! No fuss, no complicated steps, just simple ingredients that transform those spotty bananas into the most delicious, moist loaf you’ve ever tasted. It’s my go-to recipe for busy mornings, afternoon snacks, or whenever those bananas on my counter start giving me the “use me or lose me” look. Trust me, once you discover how easy and amazing this recipe is, you’ll never toss another overripe banana again!
Why You’ll Love This 4-Ingredient Banana Bread
- Super Easy Just four ingredients and minimal prep.
- Naturally Sweet No need for extra sugar; ripe bananas do the trick.
- Moist & Delicious Soft, tender, and packed with banana flavor.
- Versatile Enjoy it plain or add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips!
Ingredients
- Ripe Bananas The riper, the better! They bring natural sweetness and moisture.
- Eggs Help bind everything together for a fluffy texture.
- Self-Rising Flour Eliminates the need for baking powder or baking soda.
- Maple Syrup or Honey A touch of sweetness to enhance the banana flavor.
Full ingredient measurements are in the recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Mash the Bananas
In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. A few small lumps are okay for extra texture.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
Add the eggs and maple syrup (or honey) to the mashed bananas and whisk until well combined.
Add the Flour
Gently fold in the self-rising flour, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, this keeps the bread soft and tender.
Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use extra ripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness.
- If you don’t have self-rising flour, use all-purpose flour with 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder.
- Let the bread cool before slicing for a cleaner cut and better texture.
- Want a twist? Add chocolate chips, cinnamon, or chopped nuts for extra flavor.
How to Serve
- Enjoy warm with a slather of butter or peanut butter.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
- Turn it into a dessert by topping it with whipped cream and caramel drizzle.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing
Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for a quick warm-up.
Reheating
Pop a slice in the toaster or microwave for a few seconds to bring back the fresh-baked warmth.
FAQs
Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe works beautifully with gluten-free self-rising flour blends. I’ve had great results with cup-for-cup gluten-free flour mixes that already contain xanthan gum. The texture might be slightly different from the original, perhaps a bit more dense, but the flavor will still be delicious. For the best results, look for a high-quality gluten-free blend specifically formulated for baking.
What if I don’t have self-rising flour?
No problem at all! You can easily make your own substitute by mixing 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1½ teaspoons of baking powder and ¼ teaspoon of salt. This homemade version works perfectly in this recipe and saves you from making an extra trip to the store. Just make sure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise.
Can I use a different sweetener?
Definitely! This recipe is incredibly flexible when it comes to sweeteners. Agave syrup makes a wonderful substitute with its mild flavor. Brown sugar adds a delicious caramel note that complements the bananas beautifully. Honey works well too, though it might make the bread slightly more moist. You could even try coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option with a subtle caramel flavor.
How do I make it more moist?
While this bread is already wonderfully moist, you can take it to the next level by adding an extra banana for more natural moisture and sweetness. A tablespoon of melted butter or neutral oil like coconut oil will create an even richer, more tender crumb. Another trick is to add 2-3 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or sour cream, which adds moisture without making the bread too dense. Just be careful not to overmix the batter after adding these extras!
This 4-ingredient banana bread is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, delicious, and foolproof recipe. Whether you enjoy it plain, toasted, or with your favorite toppings, it’s guaranteed to satisfy. Give it a try and enjoy every bite!
4 Ingredient Banana Bread
Ingredients
- 3 large ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture
- 2 large eggs help bind the ingredients together
- 1 ½ cups self-rising flour eliminates the need for baking powder
- ¼ cup maple syrup or honey adds a touch of sweetness
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
- Add the eggs and maple syrup (or honey) and mix well.
- Gently fold in the self-rising flour until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool before slicing. Enjoy!
Notes
- If you don’t have self-rising flour, use 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour + 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder.
- Add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or cinnamon can enhance the flavor.
- For extra moisture, add 1 tablespoon of melted butter.
