When we talk about comfort food, Old Fashioned Banana Bread definitely comes to mind. It’s the kind of recipe that speaks to nostalgia, bringing back memories of warm kitchens and the sweet aroma wafting through the air. This delightful bread is not just a treat; it’s a staple in many households, especially when bananas begin to turn from bright yellow to a deep, speckled brown.
Banana bread has a rich cultural background, originating in traditional American baking. It gained widespread popularity during the Great Depression when ingredients like bananas, which were affordable and had a long shelf life, became common in homes. Today, it is cherished in households across the globe and often enjoyed during simple gatherings or rainy days at home.
Why will you love this Old Fashioned Banana Bread? Let’s find out!
Why You Will Love This Old Fashioned Banana Bread Recipe
Simple and Easy: This recipe requires minimal baking skills. Perfect for beginners or seasoned bakers looking for a quick fix!
Quick to Make: You can whip up this banana bread in just under an hour, making it ideal for last-minute treats or breakfast.
Budget-Friendly: With just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, this recipe is easy on the wallet.
Family Favorite: From kids to adults, everyone loves the moist, sweet flavor of banana bread. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
Versatile and Customizable: You can easily add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices to tailor the flavor to your liking.
Health Benefits: Using ripe bananas not only adds sweetness, but they are full of potassium, fiber, and essential vitamins as well.
Unique Charm: The homemade taste of Old Fashioned Banana Bread is a joy in every slice, bringing warmth and happiness to any setting.
Ingredients Needed for Old Fashioned Banana Bread
To make this delectable Old Fashioned Banana Bread, you will need the following ingredients:
- 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
Possible Substitutes
- Bananas: If you don’t have fresh bananas, you can use frozen ones; just let them thaw first.
- Canola oil: Vegetable oil or melted coconut oil are suitable alternatives.
- White sugar: Brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
- Eggs: For an egg-free version, you can substitute one egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce.
Step-by-Step Directions to Make Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Baking Old Fashioned Banana Bread is both easy and fun. Just follow these simple steps:
Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your 9×5 loaf pan by spraying it with nonstick spray. Line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Mash the Bananas: In a large mixing bowl, add the 3 extra ripe bananas. Use a fork to mash them into a smooth consistency. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
Combine Ingredients: Add the cup of sugar to your mashed bananas and mix well to combine. Stir in the 2 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/3 cup canola oil until everything is well blended.
Prepare Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together 1 1/3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking soda, and 1/2 tsp salt. This step ensures that your bread is light and fluffy.
Mix Together: Gradually add the dry mixture to the banana mixture. Stir just until everything is combined, being careful not to overmix—it’s okay if there are a few lumps!
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: Let your banana bread cool completely in the pan before removing. This will help retain moisture and prevent it from falling apart.
Extra Cooking Tips
- To enhance the flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.
- Make sure your bananas are as ripe as possible for maximum sweetness.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing: This can make your banana bread dense instead of light. Mix until just combined.
- Skipping the Sifting: Sifting combines your dry ingredients well and makes for a fluffier bread.
Extra Cooking/Baking Hacks
- If you’re short on time, you can microwave the bananas for about 30 seconds to speed up the ripening process.
- For added flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
Time-Saving Tricks
- Prepare the batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh the next day for an even more flavorful result.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Old Fashioned Banana Bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Occasions: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. Serve it warm with a pat of butter for a dreamier experience.
- Pairings: Excellent with a cup of coffee or tea, and it also pairs nicely with yogurt or fresh fruit.
- Presentation Ideas: Slice the bread and arrange it on a decorative plate with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.
How to Store Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Storage is key to maintaining the freshness of your banana bread. Here’s how to properly store it:
- Counter Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Store in the refrigerator for up to a week if you want it to last longer.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating Instructions
- To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or place the whole loaf back in a low oven for a few minutes.
Variations of Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Flavor Swaps
- Nutty Banana Bread: Add walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
- Chocolate Lovers: Stir in chocolate chips for a decadent treat.
Ingredient Substitutions
- For a Healthier Twist: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.
Seasonal Twists
- Add cranberries or pumpkin spice during the fall for a festive touch.
FAQs About Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Can I freeze Old Fashioned Banana Bread?
Yes, it freezes well! Ensure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.Can I make Old Fashioned Banana Bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it often tastes better the next day after flavors develop.What can I use instead of eggs in Old Fashioned Banana Bread?
Unsweetened applesauce works great as a substitute for eggs.Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but consider using a mix of both for a moister texture.Why is my banana bread dense?
This usually happens due to overmixing the batter. Be sure to mix just until combined.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Old Fashioned Banana Bread
- Using Under-ripe Bananas: They won’t provide the sweetness and moisture that ripe bananas do.
- Not Measuring Ingredients: Always measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
- Opening the Oven Door Too Soon: This can cause the bread to collapse in the middle. Wait until the minimum baking time is complete.
Nutritional Information of Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Each slice of this homemade treat is not just delicious but can also provide essential nutrients. On average, one slice contains approximately 200-250 calories, depending on specific ingredients used. It’s a great source of carbohydrates for energy, especially with the natural sugars from bananas.
Pairing Ideas: What Goes Well With Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Looking to expand your meal ideas? Pair your Old Fashioned Banana Bread with:
- Coffee or Tea Recipes: Try it with a cup of rich espresso or soothing herbal tea.
- Breakfast Ideas: Serve alongside scrambled eggs or a fruit salad for a balanced breakfast.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Old Fashioned Banana Bread is not only a simple and budget-friendly recipe, but it’s also a heartwarming treat that resonates with many. The delightful blend of sweet and moist banana infused bread is sure to become a family favorite.
Try this Old Fashioned Banana Bread today and share it with family and friends! Your kitchen will be filled with the irresistible aroma, and you just might start a new tradition. Happy baking!
Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 medium medium-size bananas, extra ripe (mashed, about 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 cups) Use very ripe bananas for better sweetness.
- 1 cup white granulated sugar Can be substituted with brown sugar.
- 1/3 cup canola oil Substitute with vegetable oil or melted coconut oil if needed.
- 2 large large eggs (room temperature) For an egg-free version, use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour (sifted) Sifting ensures a lighter texture.
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your 9×5 loaf pan by spraying it with nonstick spray and lining the bottom and two sides with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the 3 extra ripe bananas and mash them with a fork until smooth.
- Add the sugar to the mashed bananas and mix well. Stir in the eggs, vanilla extract, and canola oil until combined.
- In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the banana mixture, stirring just until combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the banana bread cool completely in the pan before removing.