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Perfect Small-Batch Banana Bread for Two

small-batch banana bread for two - featured image

This small-batch banana bread makes just enough for two people to enjoy a slice each, warm from the oven, with maybe one leftover piece for breakfast the next morning. It’s quick, easy, and uses simple ingredients to deliver a moist, tender crumb with a slightly crisp crust.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large very ripe banana (about 120g, mashed)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (56g), melted and slightly cooled
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar (50g)
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour (95g)
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • Optional: ¼ cup mix-ins (chopped walnuts, chocolate chips, or dried cranberries)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Position the rack in the center of the oven. Line your mini loaf pan with a strip of parchment paper, letting the edges hang over the sides for easy lifting.
  2. In a medium bowl, mash the very ripe banana with a fork until mostly smooth with a few small lumps remaining (about ½ cup).
  3. Add the melted butter, granulated sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the mashed banana. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
  4. In a small separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Use a spatula to fold gently until no streaks of flour remain (about 10 to 12 strokes). If using mix-ins, fold them in at this stage.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top gently.
  7. Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  8. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then use the parchment paper handles to lift the bread out and transfer to a cooling rack. Cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Use a very ripe banana with brown spots for best sweetness and moisture. Don’t overmix the batter to avoid tough bread. Let melted butter cool slightly before adding to egg yolk. For best flavor, let the bread sit overnight before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: small-batch banana bread, banana bread for two, easy banana bread, one banana recipe, mini loaf