Single Serving Banana Bread: The Perfect Treat For One

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Craving banana bread but don’t want a whole loaf? This Single Serving Banana Bread recipe is your answer! Made with just one ripe banana, this small batch banana bread is baked in a ramekin, offering a perfectly portioned, moist, and delicious treat just for you. It’s incredibly easy to make, quick to bake, and delivers all the comforting flavors of classic banana bread without any leftover temptation. It’s the ideal solution when you desire a sweet, homemade indulgence without the excess.

If you’re like me and love single serving desserts or small batch recipes that minimize waste, especially when featuring the versatile banana, you’ll adore these other one-banana recipes: Start your day with fluffy Banana Pancakes, indulge in a creamy Banana Cream Pie, savor the rich flavors of caramelized Bananas Foster, or enjoy a slice of petite, moist Hummingbird Cake. Each recipe is designed for single servings and perfectly highlights the natural sweetness and delightful taste of bananas.

Why This Single Serve Banana Bread Recipe Works

• Effortless and Quick: This recipe is designed for simplicity and speed. Minimal preparation and a short baking time mean you can satisfy your banana bread craving in under an hour.
• Zero Waste, Maximum Flavor: Enjoy the full flavor of homemade banana bread without worrying about leftovers. This recipe makes just the right amount for one person.
• Endlessly Customizable: Make it your own! Easily add your favorite mix-ins or toppings to create a unique banana bread experience every time.
• Incredibly Moist Texture: The secret to this recipe’s moistness is using one perfectly ripe banana, ensuring a soft and tender crumb.
• Pantry-Friendly Ingredients: You likely already have all the necessary ingredients in your pantry, making this a convenient recipe for any time.

A single serving of banana bread on a white plate, accompanied by a fresh banana.

This one banana banana bread recipe is truly the best way to use a single ripe banana. It transforms that lone banana into a moist, flavorful, and perfectly portioned treat. Say goodbye to leftover banana bread and hello to instant satisfaction!

Key Ingredients for Your Single Banana Bread

For ingredient quantities and detailed recipe instructions, please scroll down to the recipe card below. And if you find yourself with leftover ingredients from this single serving banana bread, don’t forget to use our handy Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder to discover more single serving recipes!

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our banana bread. For a gluten-free version, simply substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Baking Soda: The leavening agent that gives your banana bread its rise. Ensure your baking soda is fresh for optimal results.
• Melted Butter: Adds a rich, buttery flavor and contributes to the moist texture. For a dairy-free option, coconut oil works wonderfully as a substitute.
• Egg Yolk: Acts as a binder, adding richness and structure. Don’t discard the egg white! Save it for other single serving recipes like mini Texas Sheet Cake or delicate Coconut Macaroons.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the banana flavor and adds a warm, aromatic depth to the bread.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides the perfect sweetness to complement the banana.
• Ground Cinnamon: Adds a touch of warmth and spice, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the other flavors.
• Ripe Banana: The star ingredient! Use an overripe banana with brown spots for the best sweetness and easy mashing. If you have more ripe bananas, consider making our Chocolate Banana Bread (small batch recipe available!) or refreshing Frozen Chocolate Bananas.

Delicious Variations To Try

Want to jazz up your single banana bread? Here are some tasty variations to explore and personalize your treat:

• Banana Nut Bread: For added texture and flavor, fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or your favorite nuts.
• Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Transform it into a Chocolate Chip Banana Bread by adding chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a rich, chocolatey twist.
• Tropical Banana Bread: Incorporate shredded coconut and small chunks of pineapple for a taste of the tropics.
• Spiced Banana Bread: Elevate the spice notes with a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger.
• Berry Banana Bread: Add a handful of fresh or frozen blueberries or raspberries for a delightful burst of fruity flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide: Baking Banana Bread For One

These photos and simple instructions will guide you through each step of making this easy banana bread with one banana. Find the complete list of ingredients and detailed instructions in the recipe card below.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Lightly grease a 10-ounce ramekin with butter or cooking spray. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside the dry ingredients.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, mash the ripe banana with a fork until smooth. Add the sugar to the mashed banana.
3. Using an electric mixer or a whisk, cream together the mashed banana and sugar until well combined and slightly fluffy.
4. Add the melted butter, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the banana mixture. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Banana bread batter being mixed in a bowl, showing a smooth and lump-free consistency.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared ramekin, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the banana bread is golden brown.
8. Remove the ramekin from the oven and let the banana bread cool slightly before enjoying.

Expert Tips for Single Serving Banana Bread Success

• Ripe Bananas are Key: For the sweetest and most flavorful banana bread, use very ripe bananas. Look for bananas with brown spots all over the peel. The riper they are, the more natural sugar they contain and the easier they are to mash.
• Freeze Overripe Bananas for Later: Don’t toss those browning bananas! Peel and freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen bananas are perfect for baking and smoothies. You can thaw them before using or add them directly to smoothies frozen.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough banana bread. Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. A few lumps are perfectly acceptable and will result in a more tender bread. Leaving some small chunks of banana unmashed also adds delightful texture.

Serving Ideas for Your Single Banana Bread

Elevate your single serving banana bread with these simple and delicious serving suggestions. Perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or a light dessert:

• Nut Butter Swirl: Spread a spoonful of almond butter, peanut butter, or your favorite nut butter on top for added protein and richness.
• Yogurt and Honey Drizzle: Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a touch of tanginess and sweetness.
• Fresh Berry Delight: Pair your banana bread with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of freshness and color.
• Ice Cream Indulgence: For a dessert treat, serve warm banana bread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or your favorite flavor.
• Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a light and airy touch of sweetness.

A slice of single serving banana bread on a plate next to a glass of orange juice, showcasing a simple breakfast or snack setting.

RELATED: 15 Easy Dessert Recipes For One

Frequently Asked Questions About Single Serving Banana Bread

How can I make banana nut bread?
To make banana nut bread, simply add about 2 tablespoons of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the batter before baking.

What’s the best ramekin size to use?
For this single banana bread recipe, a 10-ounce ramekin is ideal. You can also use a small 6.5-inch cast iron skillet if you prefer.

What can I do with the leftover egg white?
Don’t waste that egg white! Use it in other single serving recipes like: Small Batch Meringues, Two Vanilla Cupcakes, Two Chocolate Cupcakes, Mini Texas Sheet Cake.

How should I store banana bread?
Store your banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature. You can reheat it gently in the microwave if desired.

Can I freeze single serving banana bread?
Yes! Freezing is a great way to keep your banana bread fresh. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before enjoying.

Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the batter ahead and bake it later. Simply cover the ramekin with batter and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

RELATED: Comfort Food Recipes For One

More Easy Recipes Using Overripe Bananas

Looking for more ways to use up those overripe bananas? Explore these simple and delicious banana recipes perfect for single servings or small batches:

RELATED: The Best Small Batch Cookie Recipes

Nutritional Information

Please note that the nutritional information provided is an estimate from an online nutrition calculator and should be considered an approximation.

This recipe yields a generous single serving of banana bread, baked in a 10-ounce ramekin. Enjoy it all at once or savor it over a couple of days.

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To see examples of the dishes used at One Dish Kitchen, please visit our Store page.

If you try this one-banana banana bread or any other recipe from One Dish Kitchen, please let me know how you liked it by rating the recipe and leaving a comment below!

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Cooking For One Made Easy – Because You’re Worth It!

Single Banana Bread Recipe (Banana Bread For One)

Rating: 4.93 from 127 votes

By: Joanie Zisk

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Cooling Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 1 serving

A small single serving banana bread in a ramekin next to a red napkin, recipe card image.

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Bake the perfect Single Serve Banana Bread using just one ripe banana and a handful of pantry staples. This easy one banana banana bread recipe is incredibly moist, flavorful, and the perfect way to satisfy your banana bread cravings without leftovers!

Watch How To Make This

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Equipment

• 10-ounce ramekin
• Small mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Fork
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• 1 medium banana, mashed (ripe banana with brown spots preferred)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon salted butter, melted, plus extra for greasing ramekin
• 1 large egg yolk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and lightly grease a 10-ounce ramekin. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
2. Mash banana in a medium bowl. Add sugar and whip together with an electric mixer or whisk until combined.
3. Add melted butter, egg yolk, and vanilla; mix well to combine.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into the greased ramekin.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Recipe Notes

Expert Tip:

• Use ripe bananas. Ripe bananas are essential for the best flavor and sweetness in banana bread. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots on the skin.
• Freeze bananas for later use. Keep overripe bananas in your freezer for baking anytime. Freeze them unpeeled – the skins will darken, but the banana inside will be perfect for baking.
• Don’t overmix the batter. For a tender banana bread, avoid overmixing. Leave some banana chunks for added texture.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1 serving, Calories: 466kcal, Carbohydrates: 75g, Protein: 7g, Fat: 17g, Saturated Fat: 9g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 5g, Trans Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 214mg, Sodium: 665mg, Potassium: 478mg, Fiber: 4g, Sugar: 39g, Vitamin A: 671IU, Vitamin C: 10mg, Calcium: 36mg, Iron: 2mg

Nutritional information is an estimated value from an online nutrition calculator and is not a substitute for professional nutritionist advice.

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