If you’re looking for a quick and simple banana bread recipe with minimal ingredients, this is it! With just three basic ingredients—bananas, eggs, and yellow cake mix—you can whip up a deliciously moist banana bread in no time. Perfect for busy mornings, after-school snacks, or a sweet treat anytime, this recipe delivers big on flavor with hardly any effort.
Why This Recipe Works
Simplicity: Using a pre-made cake mix eliminates the need for measuring out multiple ingredients, saving time and hassle.
Moist Texture: Ripe bananas naturally add sweetness and moisture to the bread, ensuring a soft, tender crumb.
Customizable: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon for extra flavor, or enjoy it plain—either way, it’s delicious!
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
Ripe Bananas (3 large): Adds natural sweetness and moisture.
Eggs (2): Helps bind the batter and provides structure.
Yellow Cake Mix (1 box): The secret to this quick and easy recipe, providing flavor and texture.
Optional Add-ins: Nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
How to Make 3-Ingredient Banana Bread
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Mash Bananas: In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. A fork or potato masher works well.
Add Eggs: Crack in the eggs and whisk until fully combined with the mashed bananas.
Incorporate Cake Mix: Gradually stir the cake mix into the banana-egg mixture. Mix until just combined—overmixing can make the bread dense.
Optional Add-ins: If you’re using nuts, chocolate chips, or spices, gently fold them into the batter.
Step 2: Bake the Banana Bread
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare Pans: Grease two small loaf pans (or one large loaf pan) with cooking spray or butter.
Pour Batter: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
Bake: Place the pans in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes (for small loaves) or 50–55 minutes (for a large loaf). The bread is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 3: Cool and Serve
Cool in Pans: Let the loaves cool in the pans for about 10 minutes.
Transfer to Cooling Rack: Carefully remove the bread from the pans and place it on a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice and Enjoy: Serve warm, or store for later.
Tips & Tricks for Success
Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots.
Avoid Overmixing: Stir just until the ingredients are combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.
Freeze for Later: Wrap extra slices or a whole loaf in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Spread with butter or cream cheese for an indulgent treat.
Pair with coffee or tea for a comforting breakfast.
Use leftovers to make banana bread French toast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No Mess: With just one bowl and minimal cleanup, it’s perfect for busy days.
Versatile: Make muffins instead of loaves, or experiment with different cake mix flavors like spice or chocolate.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and avoids specialty ingredients.
Make It Your Own!
Feeling adventurous? Try these variations:
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
Chocolate Lovers: Stir in chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
Spiced Banana Bread: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.
Ready in under an hour, this 3-Ingredient Banana Bread proves that simplicity doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is foolproof and sure to become a family favorite.
Enjoy Your Homemade Banana Bread!