Old Fashioned Banana Bread

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting treat that fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma, then this Old Fashioned Banana Bread is just what you need. There’s something nostalgic about the smell of ripe bananas baking into a warm loaf that brings back fond memories of family gatherings and lazy Sunday mornings. This recipe is not just about the delicious taste; it’s perfect for using up those extra ripe bananas sitting on your counter, making it a fantastic way to reduce waste while enjoying a yummy treat.

You can whip up this banana bread quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or as a sweet addition to brunch gatherings with friends. It’s a versatile recipe that everyone will love, whether served warm with butter or as an afternoon snack on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a loaf of banana bread ready in no time!
• Family favorite: Kids and adults alike enjoy the moist, flavorful slices — perfect for breakfast or dessert.
• Healthy option: Using canola oil keeps it lighter while still being rich and satisfying.
• Make-ahead friendly: Bake it in advance and store it for an easy treat throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Old Fashioned Banana Bread is simple and fun! You probably already have most of these wholesome items in your pantry. Let’s dive into what you’ll 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

Variations

One of the best parts about this Old Fashioned Banana Bread recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Mix in chocolate chips: Add a handful of dairy-free chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
• Incorporate spices: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg to elevate the flavor profile.
• Experiment with fruits: Try mixing in blueberries or shredded coconut for an exciting change.

How to Make Old Fashioned Banana Bread

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°. It’s essential to get your oven hot so that your banana bread bakes evenly. While that’s warming up, grab a 9X5 loaf pan and spray it with nonstick spray. Lining the bottom and two sides with parchment paper will help ensure that your bread comes out easily once it’s baked.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

In a large bowl, add those extra ripe bananas. Using a fork, mash them until they’re smooth but still have some small lumps. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas makes this step crucial for flavor!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

To your mashed bananas, stir in the white sugar until well mixed. Then add in the room-temperature eggs, vanilla extract, and canola oil. Mixing these ingredients together not only combines flavors but also contributes moisture to our banana bread.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt into another bowl. Sifting helps break up any lumps and ensures an even distribution of baking soda throughout the batter — which is key to achieving that perfect rise!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our banana bread light and fluffy!

Step 6: Bake Your Loaf

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end — when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, it’s time to take it out!

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, allow your banana bread to cool completely in the pan before removing it. This helps maintain its shape and moisture — plus, you won’t burn your fingers when you slice into it!

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful Old Fashioned Banana Bread! Whether it’s for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, each slice will be filled with warmth and love.

Pro Tips for Making Old Fashioned Banana Bread

Making banana bread is a delightful and simple process, but with these pro tips, you can take your baking to the next level!

• Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas that are brown and spotty for the best results.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, while gentle mixing keeps it light and fluffy.
• Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your banana bread a few minutes before the suggested baking time. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your bread is done!
• Let It Cool: Allowing your banana bread to cool completely in the pan helps it set properly and makes it easier to slice without crumbling.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to personalize your banana bread by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit. These additions can give your loaf an extra dimension of flavor!

How to Serve Old Fashioned Banana Bread

Banana bread is not just delicious; it’s also versatile when it comes to serving! Here are some lovely ideas on how to present this comforting classic.

Garnishes

• Sliced Fresh Fruit: A side of fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of banana bread.
• Nut Butter Spread: A dollop of almond or peanut butter on top adds protein and creaminess, making each slice even more satisfying.

Side Dishes

• Greek Yogurt with Honey: Creamy Greek yogurt drizzled with honey provides a tangy contrast that pairs beautifully with sweet banana bread.
• Cottage Cheese: A scoop of cottage cheese offers a light and protein-packed side that balances the sweetness of the banana loaf perfectly.
• Herbal Tea: Enjoying a slice of banana bread with a warm cup of herbal tea creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing bowl of mixed fruits enhances the meal experience and adds vibrant flavors alongside your moist banana bread.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Old Fashioned Banana Bread is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring you have a tasty treat ready to go whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the container to keep it extra fresh.

Freezing

• Allow the banana bread to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your bag with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat slices, simply pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the whole loaf in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes. Just be sure to keep an eye on it!

FAQs

You might have some questions about this delightful recipe; let’s answer a few common ones!

Can I make Old Fashioned Banana Bread without eggs?

Absolutely! You can substitute each egg with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) for a vegan version.

How do I know when my Old Fashioned Banana Bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your banana bread is done baking!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my Old Fashioned Banana Bread?

Yes! Feel free to stir in about 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or chocolate chips before pouring the batter into your prepared pan for an extra treat.

Why is my Old Fashioned Banana Bread dense?

A dense texture could result from overmixing the batter. Be sure to mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to keep your bread light and fluffy.

How do I ripen bananas quickly for this recipe?

If you’re short on time, place your unpeeled bananas on a baking sheet and bake them at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes until they’re dark and soft. Let them cool before mashing!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Old Fashioned Banana Bread as much as I do! It’s such a wonderful way to use ripe bananas and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or simply a snack, this recipe will surely become a favorite. Happy baking, and I can’t wait for you to try it!