Old Fashioned Banana Bread
This Old Fashioned Banana Bread is a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast or dessert. With its rich flavor and moist texture, it makes good use of those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. Easy to prepare and packed with deliciousness, this recipe stands out for its simplicity and taste, ensuring you’ll return to it time and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Moist: This banana bread is known for its soft, tender crumb, making each slice melt in your mouth.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, this recipe requires just a few simple steps for a delicious result.
- Versatile Use: Enjoy it as a breakfast item, snack, or dessert—perfect for any occasion!
- Ripe Banana Friendly: A great way to use up those extra ripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste.
- Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for an extra special touch.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into the baking process, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make your experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9X5 loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Fork
- Sifter
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- 9X5 loaf pan: The right size ensures even cooking and the perfect shape for your banana bread.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without any mess.
- Fork: Perfect for mashing bananas smoothly.
- Sifter: Ensures your flour is light and fluffy, creating a better texture in the finished bread.
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). Spray a 9X5 loaf pan with nonstick spray. Line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2: Mash Bananas
Add the three extra ripe bananas to a large bowl. Using a fork, mash the bananas until smooth. Then, add the sugar and mix well until combined.
Step 3: Mix in Wet Ingredients
Stir in the eggs, vanilla extract, and canola oil into the banana mixture until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the banana mixture. Stir just until combined; do not overmix.
Step 5: Pour Batter into Pan
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes. Check by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when done.
Step 6: Cool Before Serving
Allow your old fashioned banana bread to cool completely in the pan before carefully removing it. Slice and enjoy!
How to Serve Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Old fashioned banana bread is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether as a breakfast item, a snack, or a dessert, it pairs well with various toppings and sides.
With Nut Butter
- Peanut Butter: Spread creamy peanut butter on a warm slice for added protein and flavor.
- Almond Butter: A nutty alternative that complements the sweetness of the banana bread.
With Fruits
- Sliced Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a refreshing contrast to the moist texture.
- Banana Slices: For banana lovers, adding slices enhances the banana flavor.
As a Dessert
- Whipped Cream: Top with fluffy whipped cream for an indulgent dessert option.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle chocolate sauce over slices for a decadent treat.
With Beverages
- Coffee: Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee for a classic breakfast pairing.
- Tea: A soothing herbal tea can balance the sweetness of the banana bread.
How to Perfect Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Achieving the perfect old fashioned banana bread requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your baking experience.
- Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep the texture light and fluffy.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick; it should come out clean when inserted into the center of the bread.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool fully before slicing for cleaner cuts and better flavor development.
Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Banana Bread
While old fashioned banana bread is delicious on its own, pairing it with side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy breakfast option.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color to your plate.
- Scrambled Eggs: Pairing with eggs makes for a balanced breakfast full of protein.
- Granola Bars: For on-the-go snacking, granola bars complement banana bread perfectly.
- Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for an elegant touch.
- Oatmeal Cookies: These provide additional texture and sweetness alongside your banana bread.
- Chia Pudding: A nutritious, creamy side that pairs well with the flavors of banana bread.
- Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl can offer extra vitamins and create visual appeal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making old fashioned banana bread can be simple, but certain mistakes can ruin the experience. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.
- flavorless bananas: Using bananas that aren’t ripe enough will result in a less flavorful bread. Always choose extra ripe bananas for the best taste.
- neglecting measurements: Skipping precise measurements can lead to inconsistent results. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
- overmixing the batter: Overmixing can cause dense banana bread. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a light texture.
- skipping the cooling process: Removing the bread from the pan too early can cause it to break apart. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.
- not checking doneness: Every oven is different, so relying solely on time can lead to undercooked or overcooked bread. Use a toothpick to check for doneness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store old fashioned banana bread in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Old Fashioned Banana Bread
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
Reheating Old Fashioned Banana Bread
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes for a freshly baked taste.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about old fashioned banana bread.
How do I know when my Old Fashioned Banana Bread is done?
The best way to check is by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready!
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but it may change the texture slightly.
What variations can I make with this Old Fashioned Banana Bread?
You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even spices like cinnamon for added flavor and texture.
How should I store leftovers of Old Fashioned Banana Bread?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Final Thoughts
This old fashioned banana bread recipe is not only incredibly moist and flavorful but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. You can easily customize it with nuts or chocolate chips, making every loaf unique. Give it a try and enjoy this delightful treat whenever those extra ripe bananas come your way!
Old Fashioned Banana Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 10 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Old Fashioned Banana Bread, a classic recipe that transforms overripe bananas into a moist and delicious loaf. With its rich texture and delightful aroma, this banana bread is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, it’s a versatile treat that can be customized with nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor. Whether you enjoy it warm with butter or topped with your favorite spread, this nostalgic quick bread will surely become a cherished staple in your home.
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 the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9X5 loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Mix in the sugar until well combined.
- Stir in the eggs, vanilla extract, and canola oil until fully incorporated.
- In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely in the pan before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
- Calories: 205
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 36mg
