Old Fashioned Banana Bread
This Old Fashioned Banana Bread is a delightful treat that brings comfort and joy to any kitchen. It’s the perfect way to use up those overly ripe bananas, transforming them into a moist and flavorful loaf. Whether you serve it for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack, this banana bread will impress everyone. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a staple in many homes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Moist: The combination of ripe bananas and canola oil ensures a soft, tender texture that melts in your mouth.
- Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a warm loaf of banana bread ready to enjoy in no time.
- Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or dessert, this banana bread fits any occasion.
- Ripe Banana Savior: A great way to prevent food waste by using overripe bananas that would otherwise go unused.
- Customizable Flavor: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for an extra touch of flavor.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Old Fashioned Banana Bread, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything on hand will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9X5 loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Fork
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Sifter
Importance of Each Tool
- 9X5 loaf pan: Provides the perfect shape for even baking and makes slicing easy.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling.
- Fork: Ideal for mashing bananas quickly and efficiently.
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 and line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
Add the three extra ripe bananas into a large bowl. Using a fork, mash the bananas until smooth. This should yield about 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 cups of mashed bananas.
Step 3: Mix in Sugar and Wet Ingredients
Stir in 1 cup of white granulated sugar. Once combined, add in 2 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/3 cup canola oil. Mix these ingredients well until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Sift together 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking soda, and 1/2 tsp salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into your banana mixture. Stir gently just until combined; be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Bake the Batter
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake for about 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove from oven and let it cool completely in the pan before taking it out. This helps maintain its moisture and structure. Enjoy your delicious Old Fashioned Banana Bread!
How to Serve Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Old fashioned banana bread can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile treat for any occasion. Whether you prefer it plain or with toppings, here are some delightful serving suggestions.
Classic Slice
- Serve a thick slice straight from the loaf for a simple yet satisfying snack.
Toasted Delight
- Lightly toast slices for a warm, crispy treat. Spread with butter or your favorite nut butter for extra flavor.
With Fresh Fruit
- Pair slices of banana bread with fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries. This adds a refreshing touch to each bite.
Cream Cheese Spread
- Top with cream cheese for a rich and creamy addition. You can even mix in herbs or spices for a unique twist.
Ice Cream Sandwich
- Use two slices of banana bread to create an ice cream sandwich. Choose your favorite flavor for an indulgent dessert.
Coffee Pairing
- Enjoy a slice alongside your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The flavors complement each other perfectly.
How to Perfect Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Perfecting old fashioned banana bread is all about technique and ingredients. Follow these tips to ensure your banana bread turns out moist and delicious every time.
- Use extra ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Stir just until combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
- Check doneness with a toothpick: Insert it into the center; if it comes out clean, your banana bread is ready.
- Cool completely before slicing: This helps the bread set and makes slicing easier without crumbling.
- Storage matters: Keep leftover banana bread in an airtight container to maintain its moisture.
- Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Banana Bread
While old fashioned banana bread is delightful on its own, pairing it with side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Greek Yogurt: A creamy and tangy addition that pairs well with the sweetness of banana bread.
- Scrambled Eggs: Add protein to your breakfast by serving banana bread alongside fluffy scrambled eggs.
- Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing side that balances the richness of the banana bread.
- Oatmeal: Serve warm oatmeal topped with nuts to create a hearty breakfast spread.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: A sweet drizzle over individual slices elevates the flavor profile dramatically.
- Honey Butter: Whip honey into softened butter for spreading on warm slices—a simple yet delicious combination.
- Cottage Cheese: A protein-rich option that complements the sweetness of the banana bread nicely.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy alternative adds texture and nutrition alongside your baked treat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your old fashioned banana bread, avoiding common mistakes can make all the difference in achieving that perfect loaf. Here are some frequent pitfalls to watch out for:
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Using unripe bananas: Unripe bananas won’t provide the sweetness and moisture needed for a great banana bread. Always use extra ripe bananas for the best flavor.
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Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense bread. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep it light and fluffy.
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Incorrect oven temperature: If your oven is too hot, the outside may burn while the inside remains raw. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperature.
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Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science. Use proper measuring cups and spoons, especially for flour and sugar, to ensure consistent results.
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Skipping the parchment paper: Not using parchment paper can make it hard to remove the bread from the pan. Always line your pan for easy removal and cleanup.
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Cutting too soon: Letting your banana bread cool completely in the pan helps it set properly. Cutting too early may result in a crumbly loaf.
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 aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- You can freeze banana bread for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Old Fashioned Banana Bread
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Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap slices in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
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Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
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Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat and cover with a lid for about 5 minutes, ensuring they warm evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about old fashioned banana bread that may help you further:
Can I use frozen bananas for old fashioned banana bread?
Yes, frozen bananas work well! Just thaw them first and mash before adding to your recipe.
What makes this old fashioned banana bread so moist?
The combination of extra ripe bananas and canola oil contributes to its incredible moisture and flavor.
How can I customize my old fashioned banana bread?
Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon for a fun twist on this classic recipe!
How do I know when my old fashioned banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick in the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready!
Final Thoughts
This old fashioned banana bread recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its moist texture and rich flavor make it perfect for breakfast or dessert. Feel free to customize it with your favorite add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comforting aroma of freshly baked banana bread filling your home!
Old Fashioned Banana Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 10 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Old Fashioned Banana Bread, a classic recipe that transforms overripe bananas into a moist and flavorful loaf. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for any occasion—whether enjoyed as a hearty breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a delightful dessert. With its tender texture and rich taste, this banana bread is sure to impress family and friends alike. Customize it with nuts or chocolate chips for an extra burst of flavor or enjoy it plain. This cherished recipe is not just about baking; it’s about creating memories in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 3 medium 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). Grease a 9X5 loaf pan and line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
- Stir in sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and canola oil until well combined.
- Sift together flour, baking soda, and salt; gradually fold into the banana mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely in the pan before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast/Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (60g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
