I’ve always been a big fan of banana bread, but sometimes I don’t have the patience to wait for the oven to do its thing. That’s when my air fryer comes to the rescue—it bakes faster, keeps the bread perfectly moist, and gives it a golden finish I can’t resist. The best part? I can make it in small batches, which means warm, fresh banana bread anytime I get a craving.
This recipe is my go-to when I’ve got a couple of overripe bananas sitting on the counter. Instead of letting them go to waste, I mash them up and whip together this quick bread that fills the kitchen with that irresistible sweet aroma. It’s cozy, simple, and feels like a little treat made just for me.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Bananas: The star of the show. Overripe bananas are perfect here because they’re naturally sweet and mash easily, giving the bread its moist, tender crumb and that signature banana flavor.
All-purpose flour: This is the foundation that holds the bread together. It balances out the sweetness of the bananas while creating that soft, cake-like structure we all love.
Baking powder & baking soda: These leavening agents help the bread rise beautifully in the air fryer. Together, they make the loaf light, fluffy, and not too dense.
Salt: A pinch may seem small, but it’s essential. Salt enhances the sweetness of the bananas and deepens the overall flavor of the bread.
Butter: Melted butter adds richness and a soft, buttery flavor that makes every bite feel indulgent. If you prefer, you can also use vegetable oil for a slightly lighter texture.
Sugar: A touch of sugar boosts the natural sweetness of the bananas. Depending on your preference, you can use white sugar for a lighter taste or brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
Egg: Just one egg helps bind the ingredients together and contributes to the bread’s structure and moisture.
Vanilla extract: This little splash adds warmth and rounds out the flavors, making the banana bread taste extra cozy.
Optional add-ins: Think of chopped walnuts, pecans, or even chocolate chips if you want a little texture and surprise in every slice.
Ingredients List
- 2 large overripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup melted butter
- ½ cup sugar (white or brown)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Banana Bread
Step 1: Mash the bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the overripe bananas until smooth with just a few small lumps left for texture.
Step 2: Mix the wet ingredients
Add the melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Stir until everything is well combined and slightly creamy.
Step 3: Combine the dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed before mixing into the wet ingredients.
Step 4: Bring it all together
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently. Don’t overmix—just combine until no streaks of flour remain. If you’re adding nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in now.
Step 5: Prepare the pan
Lightly grease a small loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. Pour in the batter and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 6: Air fry the bread
Place the loaf pan in your air fryer basket. Cook at 320°F (160°C) for about 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and serve
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy warm, or store for later.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use bananas with plenty of brown spots—they’re sweeter and give the best flavor.
- Avoid overmixing the batter; it can make the bread tough instead of tender.
- If your air fryer basket is small, use mini loaf pans or ramekins for individual portions.
- Check for doneness a few minutes early, since air fryers can vary in cooking power.
- For a healthier twist, swap half the flour with whole wheat flour or reduce the sugar slightly.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this banana bread without butter?
Yes, you can substitute butter with an equal amount of vegetable oil or even coconut oil for a slightly different flavor and texture.
How do I store air fryer banana bread?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your loaf pans fit into the air fryer, or bake in batches if needed.
Why is my banana bread dense?
This usually happens if the batter is overmixed or if the bananas weren’t ripe enough. Be gentle when mixing and always use overripe bananas for the best result.
Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes! Simply divide the batter into silicone muffin cups and air fry for about 12–15 minutes at 320°F, checking for doneness with a toothpick.