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
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- 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
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas using a fork until smooth.
- Add the sugar to the bananas and mix until well combined.
Combine Wet Ingredients
- Stir in the eggs, vanilla extract, and canola oil until the mixture is smooth.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients
- Sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
Add Mix-Ins (Optional)
- Gently fold in any desired mix-ins, such as chocolate chips or nuts.
Bake the Banana Bread
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
- Allow the banana bread to cool completely in the pan before removing it.
- 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!
PrintOld Fashioned Banana Bread
- 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
- 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:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- 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:
- Mash bananas in a large bowl using a fork until smooth.
- Add sugar to the mashed bananas and mix well.
- Stir in eggs, vanilla extract, and canola oil until combined.
- Sift flour, baking soda, and salt into the banana mixture. Gently stir until just combined; avoid overmixing.
Bake the Bread:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve:
- Allow the banana bread to cool completely in the pan before removing.
- 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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