Nothing beats the comforting aroma of Old Fashioned Banana Bread baking in the oven. This classic banana bread recipe is moist, flavorful, and easy to make, making it the perfect choice for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this delicious banana bread recipe is a must-have in your collection.
With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this banana bread recipe easy and moist delivers the perfect loaf every time. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients Overview
Here’s a detailed list of ingredients you’ll need to make this Old Fashioned Banana Bread:
- Ripe Bananas (3 medium, mashed – about 1 cup)
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups – about 240g)
- Granulated Sugar (¾ cup – about 150g)
- Brown Sugar (¼ cup – about 50g)
- Unsalted Butter (½ cup or 1 stick, melted – about 115g)
- Eggs (2 large)
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)
- Baking Soda (1 teaspoon)
- Salt (½ teaspoon)
- Cinnamon (1 teaspoon, optional for added flavor)
- Chopped Nuts (½ cup, such as walnuts or pecans – optional)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this recipe, you’ll need the following tools:
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Fork (for mashing bananas)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Loaf pan (9×5 inch)
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Preparation
Follow these steps to make a moist and easy old fashioned banana bread:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it with non-stick spray.Mash the Bananas:
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork until smooth.Add Wet Ingredients:
Add the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk until well combined.Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the bread dense.Add Nuts (Optional):
Fold in the chopped nuts if using for added texture and flavor.Transfer to the Loaf Pan:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.Cool:
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.Slice and Enjoy:
Slice the banana bread and enjoy it warm or at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Banana Bread
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can result in dense banana bread.
- Add Moisture: For an extra moist texture, add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the batter.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Unripe Bananas: Unripe bananas won’t provide the natural sweetness needed for this recipe.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the bread towards the end of the baking time to avoid drying it out.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Allow the bread to cool before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
- Classic Presentation: Serve the banana bread warm with a pat of butter.
- With a Spread: Spread cream cheese, nut butter, or jam for added flavor.
- As Dessert: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
Recipe Variations and Additions
- Banana Nut Bread: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a classic banana nut bread recipe.
- Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
- Healthier Version: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar.
Storage and Freezing Tips
- Storage: Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week to keep it fresh longer.
- Freezing: Wrap the cooled banana bread tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Pairing Ideas for a Perfect Snack
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea pairs perfectly with banana bread.
- Smoothie: Enjoy with a fruit smoothie for a balanced breakfast.
- Fruit: Serve with fresh fruit for a light and nutritious snack.
FAQ Section
Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum for structure.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute instead of unsalted butter.
How do I know when the banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is ready.
Enjoy Your Old Fashioned Banana Bread
This Old Fashioned Banana Bread is a moist, flavorful, and classic treat that’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you enjoy it warm with butter or as a quick snack on the go, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. If you loved this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more delicious banana bread recipes and classic homemade treats!
Old Fashioned Banana Bread: The Ultimate Classic Treat
Nothing beats the comforting aroma of Old Fashioned Banana Bread baking in the oven. This classic banana bread recipe is moist, flavorful, and easy to make, making it the perfect choice for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert
- To make this recipe, you’ll need the following tools:
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Fork (for mashing bananas)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Loaf pan (9×5 inch)
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Cooling rack
- Here’s a detailed list of ingredients you’ll need to make this Old Fashioned Banana Bread:
- Ripe Bananas (3 medium, mashed – about 1 cup)
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups – about 240g)
- Granulated Sugar (¾ cup – about 150g)
- Brown Sugar (¼ cup – about 50g)
- Unsalted Butter (½ cup or 1 stick, melted – about 115g)
- Eggs (2 large)
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)
- Baking Soda (1 teaspoon)
- Salt (½ teaspoon)
- Cinnamon (1 teaspoon, optional for added flavor)
- Chopped Nuts (½ cup, such as walnuts or pecans – optional)
- Follow these steps to make a moist and easy old fashioned banana bread:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it with non-stick spray.
- Mash the Bananas:
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork until smooth.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Add the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk until well combined.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the bread dense.
- Add Nuts (Optional):
- Fold in the chopped nuts if using for added texture and flavor.
- Transfer to the Loaf Pan:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool:
- Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Slice and Enjoy:
- Slice the banana bread and enjoy it warm or at room temperature.
Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can result in dense banana bread.
Add Moisture: For an extra moist texture, add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the batter.