Banana Raisin Bread is the ultimate comfort food — moist, sweet, and packed with the warm flavors of ripe bananas, plump raisins, and a touch of cinnamon. It’s an easy-to-make loaf that fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma and satisfies your craving for a soft, wholesome treat any time of day.
This loaf is wonderfully versatile — perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or even a simple dessert. The balance of natural sweetness from bananas and raisins, combined with the slight spice of cinnamon, makes it irresistible. Slice it thick with a spread of butter or enjoy plain with your favorite cup of coffee or tea. This bread is a timeless classic that feels like home in every bite.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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3 ripe bananas, mashed
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1/3 cup melted butter
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3/4 cup brown sugar
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1 egg, beaten
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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Pinch of salt
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1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 cup raisins
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted butter.
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Stir in the brown sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well mixed.
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Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture, then stir to combine.
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Add the flour and cinnamon gradually, mixing just until incorporated.
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Fold in the raisins evenly throughout the batter.
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
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Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 70 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 280 kcal per slice | Servings: 8 slices
Why This Banana Raisin Bread Stands Out
What sets this particular banana raisin bread apart from many others is the perfect balance between moistness and texture. Thanks to the use of ripe bananas and a moderate amount of brown sugar, the loaf remains tender and richly flavored without becoming overly sweet or dense. The raisins add delightful pockets of chewiness, offering an interesting mouthfeel that keeps each bite exciting.
The inclusion of cinnamon is subtle but essential. It doesn’t overpower the bananas or raisins but rather weaves a gentle warmth throughout the bread, making it especially inviting during cooler months or as an afternoon treat with a hot beverage. Cinnamon also has the added benefit of enhancing the perception of sweetness, meaning you can use less sugar overall while still achieving a satisfyingly sweet loaf.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
While banana bread is often thought of as a treat, it can also offer nutritional benefits when made thoughtfully. Bananas are rich in potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. They provide natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sugars. Raisins contribute iron, antioxidants, and additional fiber, which supports digestion and heart health.
Cinnamon is more than just a spice — it contains antioxidants and has been linked to anti-inflammatory properties, blood sugar regulation, and even improved metabolism. Using whole ingredients like these allows banana raisin bread to be more than just comfort food; it can be a somewhat nourishing snack when enjoyed in moderation.
Tips for Perfecting Your Banana Raisin Bread
To get the best results with this banana raisin bread, start with very ripe bananas. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the bread will be. Look for bananas with dark brown spots or even almost fully brown skin, which indicates peak ripeness.
When adding raisins, consider soaking them briefly in warm water, juice, or even rum before folding them into the batter. This helps plump them up and prevents them from drawing moisture away from the bread during baking, keeping the loaf extra moist.
Be careful not to overmix the batter once the flour is added. Overmixing develops gluten, which can make the bread tough. Stir just until all ingredients are combined to keep the crumb soft and tender.
For an extra special touch, you can sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar on top of the loaf before baking. This creates a sweet, slightly crunchy crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.
Variations to Try
While the classic banana raisin bread is delightful on its own, there are many ways to customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. For example, adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans introduces a crunchy texture and enhances the flavor complexity.
For those who prefer a healthier twist, whole wheat flour or a blend of whole wheat and all-purpose flour can be used to add fiber and nutrients. You can also experiment with reducing the sugar or substituting it with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey.
If you want to add more fruity goodness, try incorporating dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even shredded apple or carrot for a moist and colorful loaf variation.
Serving Suggestions
Banana raisin bread is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Warm slices right out of the oven are heavenly on their own or with a pat of butter melting on top. It also pairs wonderfully with cream cheese or nut butter for a satisfying breakfast or snack.
This bread makes a lovely accompaniment to a cup of coffee or tea, and can be served alongside yogurt and fresh fruit for a balanced start to the day. For an indulgent treat, try serving it with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of whipped cream.
Because it stores well, banana raisin bread is great for meal prepping or making ahead for busy mornings. Wrap it tightly and keep it at room temperature for a few days or freeze slices individually for longer storage.
Why Baking Banana Bread Is So Rewarding
Baking banana bread is one of the most accessible and rewarding baking projects you can undertake. It requires minimal baking skills and few ingredients, yet delivers a delicious and comforting result every time. The aroma that fills your home during baking is like an instant mood lifter.
Additionally, banana bread is a wonderful way to reduce food waste by using up overripe bananas that might otherwise be discarded. It’s a sustainable, tasty solution that benefits both your kitchen and your taste buds.
Conclusion
Banana Raisin Bread is a timeless treat that combines comfort, flavor, and simplicity in one loaf. The natural sweetness of bananas and raisins paired with the warm spice of cinnamon makes it a perfect recipe for any time of day. Its moist texture and balanced flavors create a satisfying eating experience, whether you’re enjoying it fresh from the oven or toasted the next day.
This recipe is not only delicious but also offers opportunities to customize and experiment based on personal preferences and dietary needs. It’s a versatile, family-friendly loaf that will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Whether you’re baking for a cozy weekend brunch, an easy snack, or a heartfelt homemade gift, banana raisin bread always delivers comfort and joy in every bite. Try this recipe, and you’ll understand why it’s a cherished classic across generations and cultures.