Easy Blueberry Banana Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful and easy way to use up those ripe bananas sitting on your countertop, then my Easy Blueberry Banana Bread is just the ticket! This recipe is not only simple but also brings a burst of flavor with the addition of juicy blueberries. It’s become a family favorite in our home, perfect for busy mornings or as a sweet treat during the day. Whether you’re hosting friends, enjoying a quiet evening, or need a quick snack for the kids, this bread fits all those occasions beautifully!

There’s something so comforting about the aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through your kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to get everyone involved—kids love mashing bananas and folding in blueberries. Trust me; you’ll want to keep this recipe close by!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious banana bread ready to enjoy!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the combination of banana and blueberry—it’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead of time and store it for busy mornings or snacks throughout the week.
• Moist and flavorful: The addition of fresh blueberries adds sweetness and moisture that makes every bite irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easy Blueberry Banana Bread uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Let’s gather what we need:

For the Bread

• 1/3 cup canola oil (or coconut oil, avocado oil, or vegetable oil)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 ripe large bananas (mashed)
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (or white whole wheat flour or Bob’s Redmill AP GF blend)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen; we used fresh)

Variations

What I love about this banana bread recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Mix in spices: A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can bring a warm spice flavor.
• Use different fruits: Try swapping blueberries for raspberries or chopped strawberries for a different fruity twist.
• Make it chocolatey: Fold in some dark chocolate chips for a decadent treat.

How to Make Easy Blueberry Banana Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden.

Step 2: Prepare Your Loaf Pan

Lightly spray a 9 x 5 loaf pan with baking spray or line it with parchment paper and spray with non-stick baking spray. This will help your banana bread release easily once baked.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Mixing these ingredients first helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the batter.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup canola oil, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup brown sugar. Then add in 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and the mashed 3 ripe large bananas. Whisk until everything is well combined; this is where your batter gets its delicious flavor!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in your dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula. Be careful not to over-mix—it’s okay if there are a few lumps. Over-mixing can lead to dense bread.

Step 6: Add Blueberries

In a small bowl, toss your 1 cup blueberries with about one tablespoon of flour. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking. Gently fold them into your batter.

Step 7: Bake Your Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and pop it into the center of your preheated oven. Bake for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 8: Cool Before Slicing

Once baked, let your bread cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. It’s important to let it cool completely before slicing so it holds its shape well.

And there you have it—your very own Easy Blueberry Banana Bread! Enjoy it warm with some butter, slice it up for breakfast, or pack it as an afternoon snack. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Blueberry Banana Bread

Making the perfect Easy Blueberry Banana Bread can be a breeze with these handy tips!

• Use overripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. They also mash easier, creating a smoother batter.

• Don’t over-mix the batter: Mixing just until combined helps to keep your bread tender and moist. Over-mixing can activate gluten in the flour, leading to a denser loaf.

• Coat blueberries in flour: Tossing the blueberries in a little flour before folding them into the batter prevents them from sinking to the bottom during baking. This keeps them evenly distributed throughout your loaf.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your bread during baking. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs for perfectly baked bread.

• Let it cool completely: Allowing your bread to cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing lets it set properly, ensuring clean slices and better flavor as it finishes cooling.

How to Serve Easy Blueberry Banana Bread

Serving your Easy Blueberry Banana Bread can be as delightful as making it! Whether for breakfast or an afternoon snack, here are some fun ideas.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A few sprigs of mint add a pop of color and a refreshing aroma that brightens up every slice.
• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top gives your banana bread an elegant touch and adds a hint of sweetness.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top after baking for added crunch and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: Creamy Greek yogurt adds protein and a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of banana bread perfectly. Serve it plain or drizzle with honey for extra sweetness.
• Fruit salad: A vibrant fruit salad made with seasonal fruits pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of banana bread, adding freshness to each bite.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea makes for an ideal beverage pairing, enhancing your overall experience while enjoying this delightful treat.
• Oatmeal: A small bowl of oatmeal on the side provides additional fiber and heartiness. You can top it with some fresh blueberries or banana slices for consistency in flavors.

Now that you have all these ideas, get ready to enjoy your delicious Easy Blueberry Banana Bread! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Blueberry Banana Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, store it, and enjoy delicious slices throughout the week. Here are some tips on how to store and manage your bread.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the banana bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the banana bread into individual portions for easy access.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for a quick treat!

Reheating

• For a warm slice, microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
• Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Enjoy with a pat of butter or your favorite spread!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about our Easy Blueberry Banana Bread that you might have.

Can I use frozen blueberries in Easy Blueberry Banana Bread?

Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just toss them in a little flour before adding them to the batter to prevent them from sinking.

How ripe should my bananas be for Easy Blueberry Banana Bread?

The riper, the better! Look for bananas with lots of brown spots. They will provide more sweetness and moisture to your bread.

Can I substitute any ingredients in Easy Blueberry Banana Bread?

Yes! You can swap out oils, use different sugars, or even try whole wheat flour if desired. Just keep an eye on consistency as you mix!

How long does Easy Blueberry Banana Bread last?

When stored properly, this banana bread can last about 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge. If frozen, it can last up to 3 months!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Easy Blueberry Banana Bread as much as we do! It’s not only a delightful twist on a classic but also an excellent way to use those overripe bananas. Whether it’s for breakfast, snack time, or dessert, this recipe is sure to please everyone. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!