Irresistibly Easy 3-Ingredient Banana Bread (You Won’t Believe It!)

3-Ingredient Banana Bread
3-Ingredient Banana Bread

Who knew something so easy could taste this good? This 3-ingredient banana bread is the kind of recipe that makes you fall in love with baking all over again—simple, cozy, and full of that nostalgic banana aroma we all crave. I’m so excited to share this with you today because honestly, it’s become my go-to when I need comfort fast.

Just three everyday ingredients, no mixers, no fuss—just a bowl, a fork, and a warm oven. It’s naturally sweet from ripe bananas and turns out incredibly moist. Plus, it’s a fantastic base if you’re feeling fancy and want to jazz it up. So grab those spotty bananas from your counter and let’s make some magic.

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Overview of Recipe Content

This 3-ingredient banana bread is perfect for breakfast, snacking, or even dessert (a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top? Don’t tempt me!). It’s soft, fluffy, naturally sweet, and comes together in a single bowl.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Only 3 ingredients, pantry staples!
  • Naturally sweetened by ripe bananas.
  • Incredibly moist and tender texture.
  • Perfect for kids, picky eaters, or baking beginners.
  • Freezer-friendly and super customizable.

What It Tastes Like

It’s sweet, moist, and tender with that warm banana flavor that instantly transports you to simpler times. Think old-school banana bread, but with the ease of a muffin mix.

Health/Nutritional Perks

  • No added sugar!
  • No oil or butter needed.
  • Lower calorie per slice than traditional banana bread.
  • Can be made gluten-free with GF flour.

Ingredients

  • 3 ripe bananas (the riper, the better!)
  • 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg

Tools You’ll Need

  • Mixing bowl
  • Fork or potato masher
  • 8×4” loaf pan
  • Parchment paper (optional)
  • Oven

Suggested Substitutions

  • Use gluten-free flour 1:1 if needed.
  • Add cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra flavor.
  • Fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or berries.

How to Make 3-Ingredient Banana Bread

  1. Preheat the Oven
    Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line your loaf pan with parchment for easy removal.
  2. Mash the Bananas
    In a mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth and slightly chunky.
  3. Add the Egg
    Crack in your egg and mix until fully combined with the banana.
  4. Add the Flour
    Stir in the flour gently. Don’t overmix! You want just a cohesive batter.
  5. Bake
    Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  6. Cool and Enjoy
    Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

What to Serve with 3-Ingredient Banana Bread

  • Morning coffee or chai latte
  • A spread of peanut butter or cream cheese
  • A sprinkle of powdered sugar or cinnamon on top
  • Add to a brunch board with fruits and muffins

Tips for Making It Perfect

  • Use super ripe bananas. Think black spots and soft texture—these are gold.
  • Don’t overmix. Stir just until the flour disappears for tender results.
  • Check doneness early. Ovens vary, so start testing at 25 minutes.
  • Let it rest. Cooling helps the texture firm up beautifully.

Storage Instructions

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Fridge: Keeps well for 5–6 days in the fridge.
  • Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight or reheat gently.

General Information

Banana bread has roots dating back to the 1930s when baking soda became widely available. During the Depression, it was a genius way to use up overripe fruit. This 3-ingredient version is a minimalist homage to that resilient era—no frills, just feel-good food.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use self-rising flour?
Yes, but omit the egg—self-rising flour will give it enough lift.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a larger loaf pan or bake as muffins.

Can I make it vegan?
Yes! Swap the egg for a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).

Why is my banana bread dense?
It might be overmixed. Stir until just combined.

What can I add to spice it up?
Try chocolate chips, cinnamon, walnuts, or a swirl of peanut butter.

Conclusion

This 3-ingredient banana bread is proof that less really is more. It’s easy, comforting, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re baking with kids or just need a warm slice of home, this one’s for you. For more banana goodness, try my Moist Banana Muffins or the wildly loved Banana Oat Pancakes.

Happy baking, my friend. 💛

Interactive Elements

I’d love to see how your loaf turns out! 🍞
📸 Snap a photo and tag me on Pinterest: @poulefrecipe
💬 Leave a comment or review below—I read every one!

Nutritional Information

Serving SizeCaloriesProteinCarbsSugarFatFiberSodium
1 slice (1/8 loaf)90 kcal2g15g6g2g1g35mg
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Irresistibly Easy 3-Ingredient Banana Bread (You Won’t Believe It!)


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  • Author: Poulef
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf (8 slices) 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A moist, tender banana bread made with only 3 ingredients—bananas, flour, and egg. Quick, comforting, and surprisingly delicious.


Ingredients

Scale

3 ripe bananas (the riper, the better!)

1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour

1 large egg


Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Mash the bananas in a bowl until mostly smooth.

3. Add the egg and mix well until combined.

4. Stir in the flour gently, just until no dry streaks remain.

5. Pour into a greased or parchment-lined 8×4-inch loaf pan.

6. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

8. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Use the ripest bananas you have—brown and spotty ones work best for sweetness and flavor.

To make it gluten-free, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Optional add-ins: cinnamon, chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, or vanilla extract.

Store leftovers at room temperature for 2–3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 90
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 35mg
  • Fat: 2g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg
Product Image

26-Piece Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls Set

A versatile set of mixing bowls with airtight lids and non-slip bottoms. Includes 3 grater attachments for added convenience in the kitchen!

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I’m Poulef from Poulef Recipes. I love sharing perfected dishes from my kitchen. I’m sure they’ll earn a spot in your heart. Let’s savor this journey together!. Let’s be friends!