There’s something incredibly comforting about a well-baked loaf of banana bread. This Old Fashioned Banana Bread recipe not only fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma but also brings back memories of cozy family gatherings. With its rich flavor, moist texture, and delightful sweetness, it’s a staple that many of us cherish. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or a bustling weekend brunch, this recipe is a fantastic way to use up those overly ripe bananas sitting on your countertop.
Why make this recipe
Reasons to try it
This banana bread recipe stands out for several reasons. First off, it’s quick to whip up—perfect for those last-minute cravings or for a midweek treat. It’s budget-friendly, using simple pantry staples that you likely already have on hand. Kids adore it, making it an ideal choice for family breakfasts or snacks. Plus, there’s an undeniable charm in baking an old-fashioned recipe, bringing a touch of nostalgia to your kitchen.
"This banana bread is my go-to recipe. It’s simple, delicious, and my kids devour it! I love making a loaf and freezing half for later." – A Happy Baker
How to make Old Fashioned Banana Bread
The cooking process explained
Creating this lovely loaf of banana bread is a straightforward process. You’ll start by mashing those bananas to perfection, then mix them up with sugars and fats before folding in the dry ingredients. All in all, get ready to spend about an hour to bake and cool—allowing yourself a moment to relish the anticipation of that first warm slice.
Ingredients
Gather these items
To make this delightful loaf, you’ll want to gather the following ingredients:
- 3 medium extra ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1 cup white granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup canola oil
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
Feel free to swap canola oil for melted coconut oil for an added twist, or use brown sugar instead of white for a deeper flavor.
Directions
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5 loaf pan by spraying it with nonstick spray and lining the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the sugar and mix until combined.
- Stir in the eggs, canola oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until well blended.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold this mixture into the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top.
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
How to serve Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Best ways to enjoy it
To elevate your banana bread experience, consider serving it warm with a generous spread of butter or cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of homemade jam or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for some added crunch. For a cozy breakfast, serve it alongside a steaming cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of milk—simple pleasures that amplify this delightful loaf.
How to store
Keeping leftovers fresh
To ensure your banana bread stays fresh, wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can be stored for around three to four days. If you find yourself with leftovers (or simply want to enjoy it later), you can freeze it for up to three months. Just slice it into portions and place it in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible for optimal freshness.
Tips to make
Helpful cooking tips
For the best results with your banana bread, be sure to use bananas that are very ripe with brown spots—they’re sweeter and mash easier. Avoid overmixing your batter to prevent a dense loaf; mix just until combined. If you want to add extra flavor, consider incorporating cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry ingredients. Lastly, a touch of chopped walnuts or chocolate chips can give your bread an exciting twist!
Variations
Creative twists
Don’t hesitate to get creative with this classic recipe! Consider adding a handful of blueberries for a fruity twist, or turn it into a decadent chocolate banana bread by mixing in cocoa powder and chocolate chips. For a nutty flavor, sprinkle in some chopped pecans or slivered almonds. If you prefer a healthier version, substitute half of the white flour with whole wheat flour or add in oats for texture.
FAQs
Common questions
-
How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with baking time around 45-50 minutes, making this a quick recipe overall! -
Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely! Thaw them completely before mashing and adjust any liquid ingredients accordingly based on the moisture they release. -
What if I can’t eat eggs?
You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) for a vegan option.
Enjoy baking and sharing your delicious Old Fashioned Banana Bread! It’s bound to become a favorite in your home too.
Print
Old Fashioned Banana Bread
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 8 servings) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting loaf of banana bread with a rich flavor and moist texture, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 3 medium extra ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1 cup white granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup canola oil
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5 loaf pan by spraying it with nonstick spray and lining the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the sugar and mix until combined.
- Stir in the eggs, canola oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until well blended.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold this mixture into the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top.
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
For a twist, consider using melted coconut oil instead of canola oil or brown sugar instead of white sugar.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: banana bread, easy banana bread, old fashioned banana bread