There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about the warm scent of banana bread wafting through the kitchen. The first time I made this Old Fashioned Banana Bread, I was taken back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, where ripe bananas were magically transformed into a moist, sweet loaf that could brighten any day. This recipe calls for those very bananas that have seen better days—perfectly speckled and ready to be mashed into banana goodness.
What makes this recipe truly irresistible is its simplicity. With just one bowl and minimal effort, you’ll whip up a deliciously rich bread that stays tender for days. Whether you’re looking for a comforting breakfast, a delightful snack, or a sweet ending to your dinner, this Old Fashioned Banana Bread is sure to please. Let’s dive into this straightforward recipe that showcases the beauty of ripe bananas and fills your home with a heartwarming aroma!
Why is Old Fashioned Banana Bread a Must-Try?
Nostalgic flavor: Every bite is like a warm hug, reminiscent of childhood memories spent in the kitchen with loved ones.
Effortless preparation: With just one bowl required, this recipe makes baking a breeze—even for busy schedules!
Use ripe bananas: This is the perfect opportunity to give those overripe bananas a second life, transforming them into something delicious.
Versatile enhancements: Feel free to customize with mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, allowing you to craft a loaf that’s uniquely yours.
Crowd-pleasing delight: Whether served at breakfast, as a snack, or dessert, this banana bread is sure to impress family and friends.
Keeps well: This bread stays moist and fresh for days, making it a wonderful make-ahead option to enjoy throughout the week.
Old Fashioned Banana Bread Ingredients
For the Batter
• Medium-size bananas, extra ripe, mashed – This is the star ingredient; use at least 3 bananas for a rich flavor and moist texture.
• White granulated sugar – Adds sweetness; feel free to reduce the amount if you prefer a less sweet loaf.
• Canola oil – Keeps the bread moist; substitute with melted coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce for a healthier alternative.
• Large eggs, room temperature – Acts as a binding agent and provides richness; always use room-temperature eggs for better mixing.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
For the Dry Ingredients
• All-purpose flour, sifted – Provides the structure; be cautious not to overmeasure it to ensure a soft loaf.
• Baking soda – A leavening agent that helps the bread rise; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of your Old Fashioned Banana Bread.
How to Make Old Fashioned Banana Bread
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Prepare a loaf pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9X5 loaf pan with nonstick spray and line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper for easy removal.
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Mash bananas: In a large bowl, take the 3 extra ripe bananas and mash them with a fork until smooth—this should yield about 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 cups of delicious banana puree.
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Mix wet ingredients: Add the sugar, room temperature eggs, vanilla extract, and canola oil to the mashed bananas. Stir everything together until thoroughly combined, creating a lovely banana mixture.
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Incorporate dry ingredients: Sift the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt together. Gently fold this dry mixture into the banana combination until just combined—avoid over-mixing to keep your bread tender.
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Bake: Carefully pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and place it in the oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, with a few moist crumbs attached.
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Cool and remove: Once baked, allow the bread to cool completely in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool fully before slicing—this ensures the best texture.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for a warm, aromatic twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Old Fashioned Banana Bread loaves are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the week! You can mash the bananas and mix the wet ingredients up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can prepare the entire batter and refrigerate it for about 3 days. Just be sure to keep it well-sealed to maintain its freshness and prevent browning. When you’re ready to bake, pour the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and proceed as usual, ensuring your family enjoys a delicious, just-baked treat with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Room Temperature: Store your banana bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4 days to keep it fresh and moist.
Fridge: If you prefer, banana bread can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just be aware that refrigeration may dry it out slightly.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the banana bread tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen Old Fashioned Banana Bread, thaw it overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for several hours before serving.
What to Serve with Old Fashioned Banana Bread?
Indulging in a slice of warm banana bread is just the beginning—let’s explore the perfect accompaniments to create a delightful meal experience.
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Creamy Yogurt: A tangy, smooth yogurt adds a refreshing contrast to the rich sweetness of the bread, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
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Fresh Berries: Lightly tart berries like raspberries or strawberries brighten the plate and elevate the flavor profile with their juiciness.
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Honey Drizzle: A sweet touch, honey adds another layer of natural sweetness, enhancing the already delectable banana flavor.
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Coffee: A warm cup of coffee complements the banana bread beautifully, the rich notes balancing the moist sweetness perfectly for a cozy treat.
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Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some crunchy granola on top of your banana bread to add texture and a heartier element, making it an excellent breakfast option.
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Spiced Tea: Fragrant spiced tea harmonizes with the natural warmth of banana bread, creating a soothing pairing that’s ideal for afternoon snacking.
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Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream served alongside warm banana bread creates a delightful dessert that’s utterly indulgent.
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Cinnamon Butter: A swirl of cinnamon butter brings warmth and creaminess to each bite, making this combination a homey favorite.
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Chai Latte: The spiced flavors of a chai latte embrace the sweet notes of the banana bread, enhancing the overall satisfaction of your meal.
Tips for the Best Old Fashioned Banana Bread
- Choose Ripe Bananas: The key to a moist banana bread is using bananas that are heavily speckled or mostly brown, maximizing sweetness and moisture.
- Proper Flour Measurement: Spoon flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping, which can compact the flour and lead to a dry loaf.
- Mix Wisely: Be careful not to over-mix the batter; gentle folding will help prevent gluten development, keeping your Old Fashioned Banana Bread tender.
- Cool Before Slicing: Allow the bread to cool completely in the pan before transferring to a wire rack. This helps maintain the loaf’s structure.
- Experiment with Mix-Ins: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits can elevate the flavor and texture of your banana bread.
Old Fashioned Banana Bread Variations
Feel free to get creative with this classic recipe and tailor it to your taste!
- Nutty Crunch: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the soft banana flavor.
- Choco Delight: Mix in 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips for a rich, decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Berry Boost: Toss in 1 cup of fresh blueberries or raspberries for a tangy flavor explosion that brightens up each bite.
- Spiced Up: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the batter for a warm, cozy spice that enhances the overall flavor.
- Whole Wheat Swap: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf that’s still delightfully moist.
- Coconut Lovers: Incorporate 1 cup of shredded unsweetened coconut for a tropical twist that adds texture and flavor.
- Zesty Banana Bread: Mix in the zest of 1 lemon or orange to bring a refreshing citrus note that brightens the sweetness.
- Healthy Twist: Replace the canola oil with unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat version that retains moisture and flavor.
These variations allow you to personalize your Old Fashioned Banana Bread and delight your family’s taste buds with each bake!
Old Fashioned Banana Bread Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting ripe bananas?
Absolutely! For the best Old Fashioned Banana Bread, select bananas that are heavily speckled with brown or almost completely brown. These bananas are sweeter and contain more moisture, which translates to a richer and moist loaf when baked.
How should I store my banana bread for the best freshness?
To keep your banana bread at its best, store it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4 days. If you want to extend its freshness, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, and place it in the freezer for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy it later without compromising its deliciousness!
Can I freeze Old Fashioned Banana Bread? How?
Very! Freezing banana bread is a great way to save it for later. Here’s a step-by-step process:
- Allow the banana bread to cool completely after baking.
- Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
- Follow up by wrapping it in aluminum foil or placing it in a freezer-safe bag—label it with the date!
- When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or leave it at room temperature for a few hours.
What can I do if my banana bread turns out dry?
If your Old Fashioned Banana Bread ends up dry, it may be due to over-measuring the flour or over-baking. Make sure to spoon flour gently into the measuring cup instead of scooping it. And keep an eye on the baking time! Your bread should be taken out of the oven just when a toothpick comes out clean with a few moist crumbs attached to ensure it’s perfectly tender.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! For those who might have allergies, this recipe contains eggs and gluten (from all-purpose flour). As a safer alternative, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use gluten-free flour if needed. However, I recommend always checking labels and considering exposure to allergens for pets and individuals with severe allergies.
Ultimate Old Fashioned Banana Bread Recipe You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9X5 loaf pan with nonstick spray and line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, mash the 3 extra ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
- Add the sugar, room temperature eggs, vanilla extract, and canola oil to the mashed bananas. Stir until combined.
- Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gently fold this mixture into the banana mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.