Anyone who’s ever had overripe bananas lying around their kitchen counter for too long has thought about making banana bread. This recipe is ideal for those moments, as it uses just some really overripe bananas and a few cupboard staples. Not only that, but it comes together in under one hour, with a cook time of as little as 30 minutes.

When made as per the instructions, this recipe from the BBC’s website serves 10 and can be prepared in less than half an hour. Food writer Justine Pattison pointed out: “This banana cake is one of the easiest cakes we've ever made. Ever. You can make this banana cake plain, or use it as a starting point. Add nuts, dried fruit, chocolate chunks, spices too.”

Method

Start by preheating the oven to 180C (or 160C for fan ovens) or Gas Mark four.

Prepare a 900g (2lb) loaf tin by lightly greasing it and lining it with baking parchment, or alternatively, fit it with a pre-made loaf tin liner.

Remove the bananas' skins and mash them thoroughly using a fork. Transfer the mashed bananas to a spacious mixing bowl, then incorporate the eggs, sugar, and oil. Stir the ingredients together using a fork or whisk until they are evenly blended.

Sift in the flour, mixed spice, and baking powder, then whisk the mixture until smooth and fully integrated. Pour the batter into the lined loaf tin, spreading it evenly.

Place the tin in the oven and bake for approximately forty minutes, or until the loaf has risen and a skewer inserted into the middle emerges clean.

Allow the loaf to rest in the tin for ten minutes before removing it and placing it on a wire rack to cool. Slice and serve either warm or once cooled. Butter can be added to each slice if desired.