Old Fashioned Banana Bread
This Old Fashioned Banana Bread is a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort to any kitchen. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack, it features the rich sweetness of ripe bananas. With its moist texture and classic flavor, this banana bread recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re using up overripe bananas or simply craving a slice of nostalgia, this recipe is versatile enough for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Moist: This banana bread stays moist for days, making every slice deliciously soft.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginners can whip this up with ease.
- Versatile: Enjoy it plain or dress it up with nuts, chocolate chips, or your favorite spreads.
- Quick Prep Time: You can have this banana bread ready in just about an hour, perfect for busy mornings.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This recipe is an excellent way to use extra ripe bananas you may have lying around.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, make sure you have the right tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smoother and more efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick spray
- 9X5 loaf pan
- Large mixing bowl
- Fork
- Sifter
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick spray: Prevents the banana bread from sticking to the pan, ensuring easy removal.
- 9X5 loaf pan: The ideal size for even baking and achieving that classic loaf shape.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without mess.
- Sifter: Helps aerate the flour, resulting in a lighter and fluffier texture.
Ingredients
This old fashioned banana bread is incredibly moist, flavorful and the perfect recipe to use up those extra ripe bananas. It’s the only banana bread recipe you will ever need!
For the Banana Bread
- 3 Medium-size bananas, extra ripe (mashed, about 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 cups)
- 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
How to Make Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Old Fashioned Banana Bread bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Pan
Spray a 9X5 loaf pan with nonstick spray. Line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper for easy removal once baked.
Step 3: Mash the Bananas
In a large bowl, add your three extra ripe bananas. Using a fork, mash them until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add the sugar to the mashed bananas and mix well. Then stir in the eggs, vanilla extract, and canola oil until fully combined.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients
Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into your banana mixture. Stir just until combined; do not overmix.
Step 6: Bake
Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool Down
Let your Old Fashioned Banana Bread cool completely in the pan before carefully removing it using the parchment paper edges.
Enjoy each slice of this classic treat!
How to Serve Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Old fashioned banana bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you prefer it plain or with toppings, there are numerous serving suggestions to enhance your enjoyment.
With Butter
- Spread a pat of softened butter over warm slices for a rich, creamy texture.
Topped with Nutella
- Add a layer of Nutella for a chocolatey twist that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the banana bread.
Served with Fresh Fruit
- Serve alongside sliced strawberries or blueberries for a fresh and fruity contrast.
Dusted with Powdered Sugar
- Lightly dusting the top with powdered sugar can add an elegant touch and extra sweetness.
Accompanied by Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy your banana bread with a hot cup of coffee or tea to complement its flavors beautifully.
As a Dessert Sandwich
- Create a delicious sandwich using banana bread and your favorite ice cream for an indulgent treat.
How to Perfect Old Fashioned Banana Bread
To ensure your old fashioned banana bread turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips:
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Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid tough and dense bread; a few lumps are okay!
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Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your banana bread is ready!
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Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool fully in the pan before removing it. This helps maintain its moisture.
Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Pairing side dishes with old fashioned banana bread can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:
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Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the bread.
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Cottage Cheese: Protein-packed cottage cheese complements banana bread nicely, making for a hearty breakfast.
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Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs offer savory goodness that contrasts well with sweet banana flavor.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides zest and freshness that pairs beautifully.
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Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal on the side enhances nutrition while keeping you full longer.
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Smoothie: A berry smoothie serves as a refreshing drink that goes hand-in-hand with banana flavors.
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Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy option adds texture and is rich in nutrients, perfect alongside sweet treats.
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Peanut Butter Toast: For extra protein, serve banana bread with peanut butter toast for a filling snack.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Old Fashioned Banana Bread, even the smallest mistake can alter the outcome. Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your banana bread turns out perfectly every time.
- Using unripe bananas: Unripe bananas won’t provide the sweetness or flavor needed for a great banana bread. Always use extra ripe bananas that are brown and soft for the best results.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense and tough bread. Mix just until combined to keep your banana bread light and fluffy.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin your recipe. Use measuring cups and spoons for precise amounts, especially for flour and sugar.
- Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining the pan can cause your banana bread to stick. Always line with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
- Ignoring cooling time: Removing the bread too soon can result in a gummy texture. Allow it to cool completely before taking it out of the pan for the best texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
- It can last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Old Fashioned Banana Bread
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Best enjoyed within 3 months when frozen.
Reheating Old Fashioned Banana Bread
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 10-20 seconds until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Use a nonstick skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Old Fashioned Banana Bread.
Can I use frozen bananas for Old Fashioned Banana Bread?
Yes, thawed frozen bananas work well! Ensure they are fully drained before mashing.
How do I know when my Old Fashioned Banana Bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Adding nuts or chocolate chips enhances flavor and texture—feel free to customize!
What makes this an old fashioned banana bread recipe?
This recipe uses simple ingredients and methods, reminiscent of the classic style that many love.
How should I store leftover banana bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Final Thoughts
This Old Fashioned Banana Bread is not only incredibly moist but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. You can easily customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or spices. Whether served as breakfast or dessert, this recipe is sure to bring comfort and joy to your table. Try it today!
Old Fashioned Banana Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Old Fashioned Banana Bread, a classic recipe that’s as delightful as it is simple. This moist and sweet bread is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, making it a versatile staple in any kitchen. By using ripe bananas, you’ll achieve a rich sweetness that enhances every bite. Whether enjoyed plain or adorned with nuts or chocolate chips, this banana bread will surely evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth. Easy to prepare in under an hour, it’s the ultimate treat to satisfy your cravings while also serving as a clever way to use up overripe bananas.
Ingredients
- 3 medium extra ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1 cup 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 oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9X5 loaf pan with nonstick spray and parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
- Stir in sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and canola oil until well combined.
- In another bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, and salt; gently fold into the banana mixture until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely in the pan before removing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 60g)
- Calories: 205
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
