This salted cracked banana bread recipe is one of the easiest ways to make a bakery-style loaf at home. Moist, flavorful, and with a signature cracked top, it’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an anytime snack. A pinch of salt elevates the natural sweetness of bananas, creating a delicious balance that everyone will love.
Whether you’re baking for family, a party, or just yourself, this banana bread is simple, customizable, and always a hit.
Ingredients
Before you start, gather these simple ingredients. You can keep it classic or add your favorite flavors.
Basic Banana Bread
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 ½ cups)
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup (150 g) brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Flavor Add-Ins
- ½ tsp cinnamon or nutmeg
- Chocolate chips, walnuts, or pecans
- A sprinkle of sea salt on top for extra crunch
How to Make Salted Cracked Banana Bread (Step-by-Step)
Follow these easy steps to bake a perfect salted banana bread loaf.
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Add cinnamon or nutmeg if using.
3. Mash Bananas & Mix Wet Ingredients
Mash the bananas in a large bowl. Stir in melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine Wet & Dry
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Avoid overmixing for a soft, tender crumb.
5. Prepare for Cracked Top
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Smooth the top, sprinkle with sugar and a pinch of sea salt, and use a knife to make a shallow slit down the center—this gives the classic cracked bakery-style top.
6. Bake
Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until golden brown. A toothpick in the center should come out clean.
7. Cool & Serve
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy warm or store in an airtight container.
Banana Bread Variations
This recipe is versatile—you can make many delicious versions with the same basic method.
Classic Salted Banana Bread
• Follow the basic recipe with a pinch of salt for balanced flavor.
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
• Fold in ½–¾ cup chocolate chips before baking.
Nutty Banana Bread
• Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
Extra Salty & Sweet Banana Bread
• Sprinkle additional coarse sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-and-salty twist.
Tips for Perfect Salted Cracked Banana Bread
- Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness.
- Sea salt enhances flavor and highlights the crack on top.
- Fold ingredients gently for a tender crumb.
- Freeze slices for later or share with friends—it keeps well!
Serving Ideas
- Breakfast with a cup of coffee or tea
- Healthy snack or dessert
- Topped with nut butter or cream cheese
- Served with fresh fruit
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are Answer to Common Question about make Salted Cracked Banana Bread.
Is salted banana bread healthy?
Yes! Using a small pinch of salt doesn’t add much sodium and balances the sweetness naturally.
Can I make banana bread without salt?
Technically yes, but the flavor will be less vibrant. Salt enhances sweetness and texture.
How long does banana bread last?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Can I add chocolate or nuts?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips, walnuts, or pecans make this banana bread even more delicious.
Does the top always crack?
Yes! Make a shallow slit in the center before baking and sprinkle a little sugar to achieve that signature bakery-style crack.