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. Its tender crumb and rich taste make it a classic banana bread recipe that will surely become a staple in your kitchen. Whether enjoyed plain, toasted with butter, or dressed up with cream cheese and fresh fruit, it’s a versatile treat that pleases everyone. 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 just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious banana bread in no time.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of ripe bananas and other ingredients creates a rich, sweet flavor that everyone loves.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or dessert. It pairs well with coffee or tea, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Freezes Well: Bake an extra loaf or two and freeze them for later. Homemade banana bread is always available when you need a quick treat!
- Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to suit your taste preferences.
Tools and Preparation
Before you get started on this Old Fashioned Banana Bread recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the baking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9X5 loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Fork or potato masher
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Loaf Pan: The right size ensures even baking and gives your bread its classic shape.
- Mixing Bowls: Using separate bowls for wet and dry ingredients helps achieve better mixing without overworking the batter.
- Fork or Potato Masher: Perfect for mashing bananas quickly and efficiently.
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 your 9X5 loaf pan and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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 everything is incorporated.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients.
Step 5: Combine Batter
Mix just until combined; be careful not to overmix as this can affect tenderness.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool
Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy every slice of your homemade Old Fashioned Banana Bread!
How to Serve Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Old Fashioned Banana Bread is not only delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with various toppings and sides. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your banana bread experience.
Spread it with Butter
- Softened butter – A classic choice, simply spread a generous amount of softened butter on a warm slice for a rich, creamy texture.
Top with Cream Cheese
- Cream cheese – For a tangy twist, add cream cheese to your banana bread. It adds a nice contrast to the sweetness.
Add Fresh Fruits
- Sliced strawberries or bananas – Fresh fruits can enhance the flavor. Place some slices on top or serve them alongside for a refreshing touch.
Serve with Yogurt
- Greek yogurt – A dollop of Greek yogurt can add protein and creaminess. It’s also great if you want something lighter alongside your banana bread.
Drizzle with Honey
- Honey – A light drizzle of honey can bring out the sweetness in your banana bread and add another layer of flavor.
Pair with Coffee or Tea
- Hot coffee or herbal tea – Enjoying a slice of banana bread with your favorite hot beverage makes for a cozy pairing any time of day.
How to Perfect Old Fashioned Banana Bread
To ensure your Old Fashioned Banana Bread turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
-
Use very ripe bananas – The sweeter and softer the bananas, the better the flavor and moisture content in your bread.
-
Avoid overmixing – Mix just until combined to maintain tenderness. Overmixing can lead to dense bread.
-
Sift flour – Sifting all-purpose flour helps to aerate it and keeps the bread light.
-
Check for doneness – Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the loaf is done baking.
-
Cool before slicing – Allowing the banana bread to cool helps set its structure and enhances 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 make for an even more satisfying meal. Here are some great options:
-
Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance out the sweetness of the banana bread.
-
Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad adds vibrant flavors and complements the richness of banana bread.
-
Oatmeal – A warm bowl of oatmeal can be a hearty breakfast option alongside banana bread.
-
Smoothie – A nutritious smoothie offers vitamins and minerals, making a great pairing for this treat.
-
Nut Butter – Almond or peanut butter can add healthy fats and an extra layer of flavor when spread on banana bread.
-
Granola Parfait – Layering granola with yogurt creates a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with soft banana bread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Old Fashioned Banana Bread can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that might lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using unripe bananas: Always opt for very ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture. They should have brown spots for sweetness.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense bread. Stir just until combined to keep it tender and light.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use precise measurements; too much flour can result in a dry loaf. A kitchen scale is helpful for accuracy.
- Skipping the parchment paper: Greasing the pan is not enough sometimes. Lining with parchment paper ensures easy removal without sticking.
- Ignoring cooling time: Allow the bread to cool in the pan before transferring it. This helps it set and prevents crumbling.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
- Old Fashioned Banana Bread can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Old Fashioned Banana Bread
- Wrap slices or whole loaves in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Old Fashioned Banana Bread
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for 10-15 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes per side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Old Fashioned Banana Bread.
Can I use frozen bananas in my Old Fashioned Banana Bread?
Yes, thaw frozen bananas before mashing them. They work great and add moisture.
How can I tell 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 done baking.
What can I add to my Old Fashioned Banana Bread?
You can customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.
Why does my banana bread turn out dense?
Dense banana bread may be due to overmixing or using too much flour. Always measure accurately and mix lightly.
Final Thoughts
Old Fashioned Banana Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a delicious way to enjoy overripe bananas! Its warm, comforting flavors make it perfect for breakfast or dessert. Feel free to experiment with different add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips to create your ideal loaf. Give this recipe a try and savor the delightful outcomes!
Old Fashioned Banana Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful warmth of Old Fashioned Banana Bread, a cherished recipe that transforms overripe bananas into a moist and flavorful loaf. This classic banana bread is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen repertoire. With its tender crumb and rich taste, it can be enjoyed plain, toasted with butter, or dressed up with cream cheese and fresh fruit. Simple to prepare with everyday ingredients, this banana bread also freezes beautifully for future enjoyment. Treat yourself and your loved ones to the nostalgia of homemade goodness!
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 a 9X5 loaf pan and line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Mix in the sugar until well combined.
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and canola oil; stir until fully incorporated.
- In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix this into the wet ingredients until just combined—avoid overmixing.
- 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 in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 60g)
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
