Old Fashioned Banana Bread
This Old Fashioned Banana Bread is a delightful treat that brings back the nostalgia of home-baked goodness. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this recipe transforms extra ripe bananas into a moist and flavorful loaf. Its simplicity and rich taste make it a staple in any kitchen, ensuring it’s the only banana bread recipe you’ll ever need!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Moist: The use of canola oil and ripe bananas guarantees a soft, tender texture every time.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
- Versatile: Enjoy it plain, add nuts or chocolate chips, or serve with a spread of your choice for extra flavor.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This banana bread keeps well, making it ideal for meal prep or snacks throughout the week.
- Quick Prep Time: You can whip up this delicious bread in under 15 minutes before popping it in the oven.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Old Fashioned Banana Bread, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9X5 loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Fork
- Whisk or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- 9X5 loaf pan: The right size ensures even baking and gives the perfect shape to your banana bread.
- Mixing bowls: Using large bowls allows you to easily combine all ingredients without mess.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for consistency in baking results.
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 to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large bowl, add 3 extra ripe bananas. Use a fork to mash them until smooth. Once mashed, add 1 cup of white granulated sugar. Mix them together until well combined.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Stir in 2 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/3 cup canola oil. Mix until everything is fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift together 1 1/3 cups all purpose flour, 1 tsp baking soda, and 1/2 tsp salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your banana mixture. Stir just until combined; be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when ready.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let your banana bread cool completely in the pan before removing it. Slice and enjoy!
How to Serve Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Old fashioned banana bread is not only a delicious treat but also versatile in how you can serve it. Whether enjoyed plain, toasted, or dressed up with toppings, there are plenty of ways to make this scrumptious bread even more delightful.
Toasted with Butter
- Spread a generous amount of butter on warm slices for a rich and savory experience.
With Nut Butter
- Pair your banana bread with almond or peanut butter for an added protein boost and a hint of nuttiness.
Served with Fresh Fruit
- Fresh berries or sliced apples complement the sweetness of the banana bread and add a refreshing contrast.
Drizzled with Honey or Maple Syrup
- A light drizzle enhances the natural flavors and adds extra sweetness for those who love indulgence.
Topped with Greek Yogurt
- Add a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess and tang, making it perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Enjoyed as French Toast
- Dip slices in egg mixture and pan-fry for an extraordinary twist on traditional French toast.
How to Perfect Old Fashioned Banana Bread
To ensure your old fashioned banana bread turns out perfect every time, follow these handy tips. They will help you achieve that ideal moistness and flavor balance.
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Use overripe bananas: The riper your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots.
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Don’t overmix: Stir the batter just until combined to keep the bread from becoming dense. A few lumps are okay!
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Check doneness early: Ovens can vary, so start checking your banana bread at 40 minutes to avoid overbaking.
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Cool before slicing: Let the banana bread cool completely in the pan before removing it. This prevents it from crumbling when you slice it.
Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Old fashioned banana bread can be enjoyed alongside various side dishes to create a hearty meal or snack. Here are some great options to consider:
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Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with fresh fruit and granola for a balanced meal that complements the sweetness of banana bread.
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Crispy Bacon: The saltiness of crispy bacon pairs wonderfully with sweet banana bread, creating an enjoyable contrast.
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Scrambled Eggs: A serving of fluffy scrambled eggs adds protein to your breakfast spread alongside slices of banana bread.
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Fruit Salad: Brighten your plate with a mix of seasonal fruits that provides freshness against the rich flavors of banana bread.
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Smoothie: Blend your favorite fruits into a smoothie; it’s refreshing and adds nutrition to your meal alongside this delightful treat.
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Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage enhances the experience, making each bite even more comforting and enjoyable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making old fashioned banana bread can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are a few tips to keep in mind.
- Using unripe bananas: Unripe bananas do not give the bread the sweetness and moisture it needs. Always use extra ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing the batter too much can lead to dense banana bread. Stir just until ingredients are combined for a light, fluffy loaf.
- Skipping parchment paper: Not lining your pan with parchment paper can result in sticking. Always line the bottom and sides for easy removal.
- Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can affect how the bread rises. Preheat your oven to 350° before placing the batter inside.
- Ignoring cooling time: Removing the bread from the pan too soon can cause it to break apart. Let it cool completely before taking it out of the pan.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container to maintain moisture.
- Old fashioned banana bread lasts up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Old Fashioned Banana Bread
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Old Fashioned Banana Bread
- Oven: Preheat to 350°, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place slice on a skillet over low heat and warm for about 2-3 minutes each side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making old fashioned banana bread that many home bakers have.
How ripe should the bananas be for Old Fashioned Banana Bread?
Using bananas that are very ripe, with brown spots and soft texture, ensures maximum sweetness and moisture in your banana bread.
Can I substitute ingredients in Old Fashioned Banana Bread?
Yes, you can swap granulated sugar with brown sugar or use different oils like coconut oil. However, make sure to maintain similar ratios for best results.
What nuts can I add to Old Fashioned Banana Bread?
Chopped walnuts or pecans are popular choices that add crunch and flavor. You can also consider adding chocolate chips for a sweeter twist!
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 few crumbs, it’s ready. Otherwise, bake for a few more minutes and check again.
Final Thoughts
This old fashioned banana bread recipe is not only moist and delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comforting flavors of homemade banana bread!
Old Fashioned Banana Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
Old Fashioned Banana Bread is a timeless classic that evokes the warmth of home-baked goodness. This moist and flavorful loaf transforms overripe bananas into a delightful treat perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. Its simplicity and rich taste make it an essential recipe for every kitchen. With just a few straightforward steps, you can create this comforting banana bread that will soon become your go-to favorite. Whether enjoyed plain or dressed up with toppings like nuts or chocolate chips, each slice is guaranteed to bring joy.
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) and prepare a 9X5 loaf pan with nonstick spray and parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth, then mix in the sugar until well combined.
- Stir in the eggs, vanilla extract, and canola oil until fully incorporated.
- In another bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture 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 in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread 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 (70g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
