Old Fashioned Banana Bread
This Old Fashioned Banana Bread recipe is the ultimate solution for those extra ripe bananas sitting on your counter. With its rich flavor and perfect moisture, this banana bread is suitable for breakfast, dessert, or a delightful snack any time of day. Enjoy the warm aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes, and savor every bite of this comforting classic.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Moist: The combination of ripe bananas and canola oil ensures a soft and tender crumb.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with butter, pair it with coffee, or enjoy it plain – there’s no wrong way to indulge.
- Great for Leftovers: This banana bread not only tastes great fresh but also freezes well, making it easy to enjoy later.
- Customizable: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices to make this recipe your own.
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
- Loaf pan (9×5 inches)
- Mixing bowls
- Fork or potato masher
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sifter (optional)
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Loaf pan: This specific size ensures even baking and the perfect shape for banana bread.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps in organizing ingredients and prevents mess during mixing.
- Fork or potato masher: Ideal for mashing bananas quickly and effectively.
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. Prepare a 9×5 loaf pan by spraying it with nonstick spray. Line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large bowl, add the three extra ripe bananas. Using a fork, mash them until smooth. Then, add in the sugar and mix until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Stir in the eggs, vanilla extract, and canola oil into the mashed banana mixture until everything is evenly mixed.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt into a separate bowl. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir just until combined; be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when done.
Step 6: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, let the banana bread cool completely in the pan before carefully removing it. Enjoy each slice as is or with your favorite spread!
How to Serve Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Old fashioned banana bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it plain or with toppings, there are numerous serving suggestions that can enhance your experience.
Classic Slices
- Serve warm or at room temperature, sliced into thick pieces for a hearty snack or breakfast option.
Toasted with Butter
- Lightly toast slices of banana bread and spread with butter for a deliciously rich flavor.
Topped with Nut Butter
- Spread almond or peanut butter on top for added protein and a nutty taste that complements the sweetness.
Served with Fresh Fruit
- Pair banana bread with slices of fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing contrast.
Drizzled with Honey
- Add a drizzle of honey on top for an extra touch of sweetness and moisture.
With Cream Cheese Frosting
- For a dessert twist, top slices with cream cheese frosting for a decadent treat that’s hard to resist.
How to Perfect Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Perfecting your old fashioned banana bread ensures it comes out moist and flavorful every time. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.
- Use very ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your banana bread will be.
- Don’t overmix: Stir the batter just until combined to keep the bread tender; overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
- Check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center to check if it comes out clean before removing from the oven.
- Cool properly: Allow the bread to cool completely in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain moisture.
- Store correctly: Wrap leftover banana bread in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh longer.
- Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for added texture and flavor variations.
Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Banana Bread
While old fashioned banana bread is delicious on its own, pairing it with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Greek Yogurt: Creamy and tangy, Greek yogurt pairs well and adds protein to your breakfast.
- Scrambled Eggs: A savory option that balances the sweetness of banana bread, making for a well-rounded meal.
- Cottage Cheese: This light option adds creaminess and pairs well with fruit toppings.
- Chia Seed Pudding: A nutritious side that brings texture and an additional health boost.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh mixed fruits provide a refreshing contrast and enhance flavor profiles.
- Coffee or Tea: Pairing your banana bread with coffee or tea enriches your breakfast experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making old fashioned banana bread can be simple, but small mistakes can ruin the final product. Here are common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using unripe bananas: Always use extra ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture. Unripe bananas won’t give you that sweet taste and soft texture.
- Overmixing the batter: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can make your banana bread dense instead of fluffy.
- Skipping the parchment paper: If you skip lining the pan with parchment, your bread may stick. Always line it to ensure easy removal after baking.
- Not checking for doneness: Rely on time alone; insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your banana bread is ready.
- Ignoring room temperature eggs: Cold eggs can affect how well they mix into the batter. Always use room temperature eggs for a smoother blend.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover old fashioned banana bread in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Old Fashioned Banana Bread
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing.
- You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Old Fashioned Banana Bread
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat slices on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about old fashioned banana bread that might help you perfect your baking skills.
What makes old fashioned banana bread moist?
Old fashioned banana bread is moist due to the use of extra ripe bananas and oil in the recipe. These ingredients provide moisture and enhance flavor.
Can I customize my old fashioned banana bread?
Yes! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to personalize your old fashioned banana bread recipe and make it unique.
How do I know when my old fashioned banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your old fashioned banana bread is finished baking.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole wheat flour for part or all of the all-purpose flour, but this may change the texture slightly.
Why did my old fashioned banana bread sink in the middle?
A sinking loaf often results from overmixing or too much leavening agent. Make sure to mix gently and measure ingredients accurately.
Final Thoughts
This old fashioned banana bread recipe is not only easy but also incredibly versatile. With its delightful aroma and moist texture, it’s perfect for breakfast or as a comforting snack. Feel free to experiment with add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips to suit your tastes!
Old Fashioned Banana Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: About 10 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of Old Fashioned Banana Bread, a timeless treat that turns overripe bananas into a deliciously moist loaf. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a delightful snack any time of day. With its rich flavor and tender crumb, you’ll relish the delightful aroma as it bakes in your kitchen. Customize it with nuts or chocolate chips for a personal touch, and enjoy it fresh or frozen for later cravings.
Ingredients
- 3 medium 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
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×5 loaf pan by greasing it and lining with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Mix in the sugar until well combined.
- Add eggs, vanilla extract, and canola oil to the banana mixture; stir until evenly mixed.
- In another bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until 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 in the pan before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
