Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Indulge in the warm comfort of this Old Fashioned Banana Bread, a delightful recipe that transforms overripe bananas into a moist, flavorful loaf. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, this classic banana bread is sure to become a go-to treat in your kitchen. Whether enjoyed plain, toasted with butter, or topped with cream cheese and fresh fruit, it caters to everyone’s tastes. Easy to prepare and made with simple ingredients, this banana bread also freezes beautifully for future enjoyment. Treat yourself to the nostalgia of homemade goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, making this banana bread is a breeze for bakers of all levels.
- Deliciously Moist: The use of overripe bananas ensures every slice is tender and packed with flavor.
- Versatile Enjoyment: Whether for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this banana bread fits any occasion perfectly.
- Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist on flavor and texture.
- Freezes Well: Bake a loaf now and enjoy it later! This banana bread maintains its deliciousness when frozen.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin baking your Old Fashioned Banana Bread, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9X5 loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Fork or potato masher
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Sifter
Importance of Each Tool
- Loaf Pan: A good quality loaf pan ensures even baking and the perfect shape for your banana bread.
- Mixing Bowls: Using separate bowls helps keep wet and dry ingredients organized until they come together.
- Sifter: Sifting flour helps aerate it, resulting in a lighter texture in your baked goods.
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread
- 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
How to Make Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9X5 loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Mix in the sugar until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and canola oil to the banana mixture. Stir well until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined; avoid overmixing for a tender crumb.
Step 5: Pour Batter Into Loaf Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan evenly.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack.
Enjoy your homemade Old Fashioned Banana Bread!
How to Serve Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Old Fashioned Banana Bread is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it warm from the oven or toasted, these serving suggestions will elevate your banana bread experience.
Enjoy It Plain
- Perfectly delicious on its own, this banana bread stands out with its moist crumb and rich flavor.
Spread with Butter
- A classic choice, spreading a thin layer of butter adds richness and enhances the flavors of the banana bread.
Top with Cream Cheese
- For a creamy contrast, spread cream cheese over a slice. You can also add a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
Add Fresh Fruit
- Enhance your banana bread with slices of fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or bananas for a refreshing touch.
Serve with Yogurt
- Pairing your banana bread with a dollop of yogurt creates a delightful combination that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Ice Cream Delight
- For an indulgent dessert, serve warm slices of banana bread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warmth of the bread melts the ice cream perfectly!
How to Perfect Old Fashioned Banana Bread
To ensure your Old Fashioned Banana Bread is always moist and flavorful, follow these tips for perfection.
- Use very ripe bananas – The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
- Avoid overmixing – Mix just until combined to keep your loaf tender; too much mixing can make it tough.
- Sift dry ingredients – Sifting flour and baking soda helps to aerate them, resulting in a lighter texture.
- Check for doneness – Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the bread is ready.
- Cool before slicing – Allow the loaf to cool in the pan before transferring it to avoid crumbling.
- Experiment with add-ins – Feel free to customize by adding nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Pairing side dishes with Old Fashioned Banana Bread can create a delightful meal or snack experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad – A colorful mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of banana bread beautifully.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a balanced side that adds protein and crunch.
- Honey Drizzled Ricotta – Spread ricotta cheese on top of banana bread, drizzled with honey for a sweet and creamy contrast.
- Nutty Granola – Serve alongside homemade or store-bought granola for added texture and nutty flavors.
- Cottage Cheese – A scoop of cottage cheese provides a protein-rich option that pairs well with sweet banana flavors.
- Chai Tea or Coffee – Enjoying your banana bread with a cup of spiced chai tea or coffee enhances its comforting qualities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Old Fashioned Banana Bread, avoiding common pitfalls can lead to a perfect loaf every time. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.
- Using underripe bananas: Always opt for very ripe bananas. They provide the best sweetness and moisture for your banana bread.
- Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure you get it right.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the bread dense. Stir just until the ingredients are combined for a light, fluffy texture.
- Skipping the parchment paper: Lining your loaf pan with parchment helps with easy removal and ensures your banana bread doesn’t stick.
- Ignoring cooling time: Allow the bread to cool in the pan before transferring it. This helps maintain its shape and prevents it from breaking apart.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Old Fashioned Banana Bread in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- For best results, wrap it in plastic wrap before placing it in the container.
Freezing Old Fashioned Banana Bread
- Slice the loaf before freezing for easy access later.
- Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 3 months.
Reheating Old Fashioned Banana Bread
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering with a lid. Heat each slice for about 2-3 minutes per side.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the secret to moist Old Fashioned Banana Bread?
The key is using very ripe bananas, which add moisture and sweetness. Also, avoid overmixing your batter.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour; however, you may need to adjust liquid ratios slightly as it absorbs more moisture.
How do I know when my Old Fashioned Banana Bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!
Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your banana bread by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
Old Fashioned Banana Bread is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it plain or customize it with your favorite add-ins. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying it alone, this recipe is bound to bring warmth and nostalgia into your kitchen. Try making this delightful treat today!
Old Fashioned Banana Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: About 10 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the comforting goodness of Old Fashioned Banana Bread, a delightful recipe that turns overripe bananas into a moist and flavorful loaf. This classic treat is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen. With its tender crumb and rich flavor, this banana bread can be enjoyed plain, toasted with butter, or topped with cream cheese and fresh fruit. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, it’s also an excellent choice for freezing—allowing you to savor homemade goodness anytime. Whether you’re craving nostalgia or simply want a delicious snack, this Old Fashioned Banana Bread will quickly become a favorite!
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). Grease and line a 9X5 loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Stir in the sugar until well combined.
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and canola oil to the banana mixture; mix until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined—avoid overmixing.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan evenly.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
