Posted by Are you looking for a quick and easy way to enjoy fresh banana bread without the temptation of a large loaf? This simple, mini banana bread recipe is perfect for satisfying your craving without overwhelming your kitchen with leftovers. Made with just a few basic pantry ingredients, this recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, and it’s a healthier option that’s simple to prepare. Plus, it’s versatile, so you can add a variety of delicious extras like chocolate chips, berries, or nuts for a unique twist on the classic treat.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delightful, mini banana bread that’s made using an air fryer or oven, without the need for complicated steps like creaming butter and sugar. This recipe is perfect for busy mornings or as a healthy snack to enjoy at any time.
Ingredients for the Mini Banana Bread
• 1 ripe banana (medium to small size, mashed, about ⅓ cup)
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (feel free to adjust the amount based on sweetness preference)
• 2 tablespoons oil (light olive oil, canola, coconut, or even melted butter)
• ¼ cup milk (use any milk you prefer, including dairy-free options like almond or soy milk)
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour (you can use white, wholemeal, or coconut flour, or even a blend for a healthy variation)
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 pinch salt
• Optional spices: cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor
• Optional mix-ins: chocolate chips, berries (blueberries, raspberries), shredded coconut, nuts, or ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
How To Make
- Prepare Your Baking Pan:
Start by lining a small ovenproof pan with parchment paper. If you’re using a mini loaf pan, make sure it’s about 5×3 inches in size. You can also use a glass dish or a small cake pan. Don’t forget to lightly spray the pan with oil to prevent sticking. - Preheat the Oven or Air Fryer:
Preheat your oven or air fryer to 320°F (160°C). This ensures that your banana bread will bake evenly and rise properly. - Mash the Banana and Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth. Add the egg and whisk them together until fully combined. Then, stir in the brown sugar, oil, and milk. Keep mixing until the ingredients are well-blended. - Add Dry Ingredients and Mix Well:
Sift in the flour, baking soda, and salt. If you’re using optional spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, add them here. Stir everything together until just combined—don’t overmix, as that can lead to dense bread. If the batter feels too thick, you can add a small drizzle of extra milk. - Add Optional Mix-ins:
If you’re adding any mix-ins like chocolate chips, berries, or nuts, fold them into the batter now. These extras not only boost the flavor but also make the banana bread more exciting. - Bake the Banana Bread:
Pour the prepared batter into the lined pan. Place it in the air fryer or oven. Bake for 25 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, depending on your specific air fryer or oven model. If you’re using an air fryer, it will usually take a little longer, around 30 to 35 minutes. - Cool and Enjoy:
Once baked, let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Pro Tips for Perfect Banana Bread
- Banana Selection: For the best flavor, choose a ripe banana with brown spots. Overripe bananas bring out the natural sweetness in your bread.
- Flour Variations: You can experiment with whole wheat, coconut flour, or even gluten-free flour blends to suit your dietary preferences. Just be mindful that some flours absorb more liquid, so you may need to adjust the milk quantity accordingly.
- Air Fryer Tips: If you’re using an air fryer, check the bread around 25 minutes. If the top is getting too brown but the inside is still raw, you can flip it over halfway through to ensure even baking.
- Mix-in Ideas: Get creative with your add-ins! Try a handful of chocolate chips, some shredded coconut, or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Storage: This mini banana bread stays fresh for a few days if stored in an airtight container. You can also freeze individual slices for later enjoyment.
Variations and Substitutions
This mini banana bread recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some easy substitutions and variations to try:
- Healthier Options: For a more health-conscious version, reduce the sugar and use coconut oil instead of regular vegetable oil. You can also swap in whole wheat flour or almond flour for a more nutritious twist.
- Dairy-Free Options: Use plant-based milk such as almond, soy, or oat milk to make this banana bread dairy-free. You can also swap the egg for a flaxseed egg if you’re vegan.
- Extra Flavor: Add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. You can also incorporate fresh fruit like raspberries or blueberries for a fruity version of this mini banana bread.
Storing and Freezing
This banana bread is perfect for meal prep. If you have leftovers, wrap the slices in parchment paper and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices. Wrap them in plastic wrap or freezer bags and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds to warm up.
FAQs for Mini Banana Bread Recipe
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes! If you have overripe bananas in the freezer, simply thaw them out and mash them. They work just as well as fresh bananas.
Can I substitute the brown sugar?
Absolutely! You can use white sugar, coconut sugar, or maple syrup instead of brown sugar, depending on your preference.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
No worries! This recipe works perfectly in the oven. Just bake at 320°F (160°C) for 25 to 35 minutes, checking with a toothpick for doneness.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! If you’re looking to make a larger batch, simply double the ingredients and bake in a regular loaf pan. Just remember that the baking time may be slightly longer, so keep an eye on it.
Air Fryer Banana Bread
This simple, mini banana bread recipe is perfect for satisfying your craving without overwhelming your kitchen with leftovers. Made with just a few basic pantry ingredients, this recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, and it’s a healthier option that’s simple to prepare. Plus, it’s versatile, so you can add a variety of delicious extras like chocolate chips, berries, or nuts for a unique twist on the classic treat.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
• 1 ripe banana, mashed (about ⅓ cup)
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons oil (olive, canola, coconut, or melted butter)
• ¼ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat/coconut flour)
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 pinch cinnamon or nutmeg (optional)
• Optional mix-ins: chocolate chips, nuts, berries, vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat oven or air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
- Line a small baking pan with parchment paper and spray with oil.
- Mash the banana in a bowl, then add the egg, sugar, oil, and milk. Mix well.
- Add flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir until combined.
- Fold in any optional add-ins (chocolate, berries, nuts).
- Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake for 25–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool.
Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Nutrition (per serving):
Calories: 233
Carbs: 34g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 9g
Sodium: 171mg
Fiber: 1g
