Old-Fashioned Banana Bread is a classic treat that beckons with its warm, inviting aroma, perfectly complementing that first sip of morning coffee. Imagine biting into a slice of soft, moist banana bread where the sweet, caramelized notes dance on your palate and each crumb melts blissfully in your mouth.

As you take a moment to savor this delightful creation, you may find yourself reminiscing about those cozy afternoons spent baking in the kitchen. The smell of ripe bananas filling the air is enough to transport you back to childhood memories of family gatherings or lazy weekends. Nothing beats an old-fashioned banana bread when you’re looking for comfort food to share with loved ones or simply enjoy during a quiet evening at home.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Old-Fashioned Banana Bread is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for novice bakers and experienced chefs alike.
- The flavor profile combines sweet bananas with a hint of vanilla and cinnamon, creating a heavenly experience.
- Its golden-brown crust and moist interior make it visually appealing on any table setting.
- Enjoy it as breakfast, dessert, or even as a thoughtful gift for friends and family.
Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Banana Bread
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ripe Bananas: Use three to four overripe bananas for the best sweetness and moisture content; they should be brown and spotty.
All-Purpose Flour: About two cups will give your banana bread structure without being too dense; sift for better results.
Sugar: A mix of granulated sugar and brown sugar enhances the flavor; use one cup total to balance sweetness.
Baking Soda: One teaspoon is essential for leavening; make sure it’s fresh for optimal rise.
Salt: Just half a teaspoon adds depth to the flavors; don’t skip it!
Eggs: One large egg binds everything together while adding moisture; use room temperature eggs for best results.
Unsalted Butter: Melted butter adds richness; about half a cup will do the trick.
Vanilla Extract: One teaspoon elevates the flavor profile with its warm notes; pure vanilla extract is recommended.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Banana Bread
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While waiting, prepare your loaf pan by greasing it with nonstick cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Mash Those Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. It’s okay if there are some small lumps—those will add character!
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add melted butter into the mashed bananas and mix well. Then stir in the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—don’t overmix!
Step 5: Pour and Bake
Transfer your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in your preheated oven for approximately 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove from oven and let cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack. Slice up your Old-Fashioned Banana Bread once cooled slightly—enjoy it warm or at room temperature!
Now that you’ve mastered this mouthwatering old-fashioned banana bread recipe, feel free to experiment! Add nuts or chocolate chips if you’re feeling adventurous. This delightful treat is sure to bring smiles all around!
You Must Know
- This delightful Old-Fashioned Banana Bread recipe is perfect for using those overripe bananas lurking in your kitchen.
- It’s a warm hug in loaf form, ready to brighten up your morning coffee or afternoon snack.
- Plus, it fills your home with an irresistible aroma!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mash those ripe bananas while the oven warms up. Then, cream together butter and sugar before adding eggs and vanilla. Mix in the dry ingredients, fold in the bananas, and pour into a greased loaf pan for baking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this Old-Fashioned Banana Bread with nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch. Dark chocolate chips can also bring a sweet twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
Storing & Reheating
To keep your Old-Fashioned Banana Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to three months. Reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use very ripe bananas; they give the best flavor and sweetness.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep your banana bread tender and fluffy.
- Let the loaf cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts and better texture.
Sometimes I make this banana bread just to impress my neighbors with that warm, inviting smell wafting through my kitchen. It’s become a little tradition—who doesn’t love homemade goodies?
FAQs :
What ingredients are needed for Old-Fashioned Banana Bread?
To make Old-Fashioned Banana Bread, you will need ripe bananas, all-purpose flour, sugar, eggs, butter, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Optional ingredients like vanilla extract and nuts can enhance the flavor. The key to a moist and flavorful banana bread lies in using overripe bananas as they provide natural sweetness and moisture. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for the best results.
How do I store Old-Fashioned Banana Bread?
To keep your Old-Fashioned Banana Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the freezer. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it at room temperature or heat it gently in the oven for a warm treat.
Can I substitute ingredients in Old-Fashioned Banana Bread?
Yes, you can make several substitutions in your Old-Fashioned Banana Bread recipe. For instance, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber. If you’re looking to reduce sugar, consider using honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener. Additionally, plant-based alternatives like coconut oil or applesauce can replace butter for a healthier option while still maintaining a delicious taste.
How long does it take to bake Old-Fashioned Banana Bread?
Typically, Old-Fashioned Banana Bread takes about 60 to 70 minutes to bake at 350°F (175°C). However, baking times may vary based on your oven and the size of your loaf pan. It’s essential to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean or with only a few crumbs attached, your banana bread is ready to cool down before slicing.
Conclusion for Old-Fashioned Banana Bread :
Old-Fashioned Banana Bread is a delightful way to use overripe bananas while creating a comforting treat that everyone loves. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for bakers of any skill level. Remember to store it properly to maintain freshness and consider ingredient substitutions for healthier options. Enjoying a slice of warm banana bread with a cup of tea or coffee makes for an ideal snack any time of day!
Old-Fashioned Banana Bread
Old-Fashioned Banana Bread is a beloved classic that transforms overripe bananas into a moist, flavorful loaf perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. With its rich aroma and comforting taste enhanced by hints of vanilla and cinnamon, this easy recipe is sure to evoke nostalgic memories. Bake a loaf to share with family and friends, or enjoy it warm with your favorite coffee.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: About 10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas (about 1 ½ cups mashed)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
- Mix in melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt; fold into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for ten minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 205
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: - For added texture, consider incorporating chopped walnuts or chocolate chips. - Spice lovers can experiment by adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. - Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.