Old Fashioned Banana Bread

A classic and moist banana bread recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with extra-ripe bananas and simple pantry ingredients, this timeless treat is easy to bake and even easier to enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple and Classic: A no-fuss recipe with timeless flavors.
  • Perfectly Moist: The mashed bananas and canola oil create a soft, tender texture.
  • Customizable: Add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts to make it your own.
  • Quick to Prepare: Just 15 minutes of prep time for a homemade delight.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 3 medium-sized bananas, extra ripe, mashed (about 1 ¼ to 1 ½ cups)
  • 1 cup white granulated sugar
  • ⅓ cup canola oil
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Optional Mix-Ins

  • 1 cup semisweet mini chocolate chips
  • 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Directions

Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray and line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mash the Bananas

  1. In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas using a fork until smooth.
  2. Add the sugar to the bananas and mix until well combined.

Combine Wet Ingredients

  1. Stir in the eggs, vanilla extract, and canola oil until the mixture is smooth.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients

  1. Sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl.
  2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.

Add Mix-Ins (Optional)

  1. Gently fold in any desired mix-ins, such as chocolate chips or nuts.

Bake the Banana Bread

  1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
  2. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

  1. Allow the banana bread to cool completely in the pan before removing it.
  2. Slice and serve as a snack, breakfast, or dessert.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 9 slices
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

  • Spiced Banana Bread: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
  • Healthier Option: Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour and reduce sugar to ¾ cup.
  • Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Tropical Twist: Mix in shredded coconut or diced pineapple for a tropical flavor.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerate for up to 1 week.
  • Freezing: Freeze individual slices or the whole loaf wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
  • Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast lightly.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw and drain frozen bananas before mashing them for the recipe.

2. How do I know when the banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.

3. Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?

Yes, brown sugar adds a deeper flavor and slightly moister texture.

4. What’s the best way to mash bananas?

Use a fork or potato masher for a smooth consistency.

5. Can I make this banana bread dairy-free?

Yes, replace Parmesan with dairy-free options and use coconut oil instead of butter.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply use two loaf pans or bake in batches if you only have one.

7. Can I add fruit to this recipe?

Yes, blueberries or diced apples make great additions.

8. How do I keep my banana bread moist?

Avoid overbaking and store in an airtight container to retain moisture.

9. Can I use self-rising flour?

Yes, but omit the baking soda and salt.

10. What’s the best way to serve banana bread?

Enjoy plain, with butter, or spread with cream cheese for a delicious treat.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Banana Bread is a classic, no-fail recipe that’s perfect for any time of day. With its moist texture, sweet banana flavor, and endless customization options, it’s sure to become a household favorite. Bake a loaf today and fill your home with the comforting aroma of fresh banana bread!

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Old Fashioned Banana Bread

Old Fashioned Banana Bread

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  • Author: Asma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 9 slices 1x
  • Category: Breakfast, Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A timeless and moist banana bread recipe that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. This easy-to-make classic is a family favorite, made with ripe bananas and simple ingredients for a delicious, comforting treat.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 3 medium 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 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with nonstick spray and line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper for easy removal.

Make the Batter:

  1. Mash bananas in a large bowl using a fork until smooth.
  2. Add sugar to the mashed bananas and mix well.
  3. Stir in eggs, vanilla extract, and canola oil until combined.
  4. Sift flour, baking soda, and salt into the banana mixture. Gently stir until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Bake the Bread:

  1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
  2. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve:

  1. Allow the banana bread to cool completely in the pan before removing.
  2. Slice and enjoy as is, or spread with butter for an extra treat.

Notes

  • Add-Ins: Enhance the recipe with 1 cup of semisweet mini chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or walnuts.
  • Storage: Keep at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
  • Freezing: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1
  • Calories: 255 kcal per slice

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