Let Me Tell You About My Favorite Banana Bread Recipe
There’s something magical about the smell of banana bread wafting through the house. It brings me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where we would savor every slice fresh out of the oven. This Old Fashioned Banana Bread recipe is a staple in my home because it’s not just easy to make; it’s also comforting and delicious, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to use up extra ripe bananas or simply want a quick and satisfying treat, this recipe will leave your taste buds yearning for more.
What Makes This Banana Bread Recipe Special?
This Old Fashioned Banana Bread isn’t just another quick bread; it’s a delightful experience. Here’s why you’ll love making it:
- Simplicity: With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe is friendly for bakers of all skill levels.
- Budget-friendly: The ingredients are typically pantry staples, meaning you don’t have to break the bank for a delectable treat.
- Kid-approved: Kids and adults alike find this banana bread irresistible. It’s great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert!
- Versatility: You can serve it warm with butter, toasted, or even use it for delicious French toast.
"The best banana bread I’ve ever made! Rich, moist, and everyone in the family came back for seconds!" — Sarah L.
Preparing Old Fashioned Banana Bread: Step-by-Step Overview
Making Old Fashioned Banana Bread is easy and straightforward. You’ll only need a handful of ingredients and some simple steps to follow. Plus, the kitchen will smell incredible as it bakes! Here’s an overview of what to expect:
- Preheat your oven and prepare your loaf pan.
- Mash the bananas and mix them with sugar.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients.
- Bake until golden brown and your toothpick comes out clean.
Let’s dive into the ingredient list next!
Gather These Items
To create this delightful banana bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 3 Medium extra ripe bananas (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
Tip: If you don’t have canola oil, feel free to use vegetable oil or melted butter!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to bake? Here’s how to bring this delicious Old Fashioned Banana Bread to life:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×5 loaf pan with nonstick spray and line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, add your 3 extra ripe bananas and use a fork to mash them well.
- Stir in 1 cup of sugar until well combined.
- Add in 2 large, room temperature eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/3 cup canola oil. Mix everything together until smooth.
- Sift together 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking soda, and 1/2 tsp salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow it to cool completely before removing from the pan.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Now that your Old Fashioned Banana Bread is ready, here are a few creative ways to enjoy it:
- Slice and serve warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese for a delightful breakfast.
- Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Toast slices for a crunchy, buttery treat that’s perfect for brunch.
- Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for an extra flavor kick.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To store your delicious banana bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil to maintain its moisture. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Room Temperature: Your banana bread can sit at room temperature for up to three days.
- Refrigeration: If you live in a humid environment, a sealed container in the fridge will help it last up to a week.
- Freezing: For longer storage, slice the bread, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to three months. Just thaw individual slices as needed!
Pro Chef Tips
- Use Overripe Bananas: The more speckles, the sweeter the flavor! Aim for bananas that are mostly brown.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently stir until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens vary! Check for doneness about 5 minutes before the stated baking time.
Creative Twists
Feel free to put your spin on this recipe with these fun variations:
- Nutty Banana Bread: Fold in 1/2 cup of walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Chocolate Chip Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a sweet treat.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate 1 tsp of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor boost.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to bake banana bread?
The typical baking time is around 45-50 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Always check with a toothpick for doneness!
Can I substitute the canola oil?
Yes! You can use melted butter or vegetable oil in its place.
How should I store banana bread?
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Now that you have all the details, you’re ready to create a scrumptious loaf of Old Fashioned Banana Bread. Enjoy the smell and taste of homemade goodness!
Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 medium extra ripe bananas (mashed, about 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 cups) Aim for bananas that are mostly brown for more sweetness.
- 1 cup white granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup canola oil You can substitute with vegetable oil or melted butter.
- 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
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×5 loaf pan with nonstick spray and line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, add your 3 extra ripe bananas and use a fork to mash them well.
- Stir in 1 cup of sugar until well combined.
- Add in 2 large, room temperature eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/3 cup canola oil. Mix everything together until smooth.
- Sift together 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking soda, and 1/2 tsp salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Baking
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow it to cool completely before removing from the pan.
