Introduction
Who doesn’t love a slice of warm, soft banana bread? The smell alone can fill your home with cozy, happy vibes. Banana bread is one of those classic recipes that never go out of style. It’s simple to make, uses everyday ingredients, and is a great way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your kitchen counter.
This recipe for Old Fashioned Banana Bread brings back sweet memories of grandma’s kitchen. It’s soft, moist, full of banana flavor, and just the right amount of sweet. You don’t need any fancy tools or ingredients—just a mixing bowl, a spoon, and a love for good food. Let’s get started!
Ingredients – Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect old-fashioned banana bread:
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but adds great flavor)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Step by Step Process – Old Fashioned Banana Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
Peel the bananas and place them in a large mixing bowl. Use a fork or potato masher to mash them until smooth. A few small lumps are okay.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Add the melted butter to the mashed bananas and stir well. Next, add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Slowly add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture. Stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—this can make the bread tough instead of soft.
Step 5: Add Nuts (Optional)
If you like nuts, now is the time to gently fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans. This gives the bread a lovely crunch and flavor.
Step 6: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Slice |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Sugars | 15g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Fiber | 1.5g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
| Cholesterol | 40mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes! Frozen bananas work great. Just thaw them completely and drain any extra liquid before using.
Q2: What can I use instead of butter?
You can use vegetable oil or applesauce (for a healthier option). It might slightly change the texture, but it will still be delicious.
Q3: Can I add chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Mix in about 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
Q4: How do I store banana bread?
Wrap it in plastic wrap or foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Q5: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a one-to-one substitute. Just make sure it includes xanthan gum or add 1/2 teaspoon separately.
Final Thoughts
Old Fashioned Banana Bread is more than just a recipe—it’s a warm, comforting treat that brings people together. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning, a quick breakfast, or a snack with your favorite cup of tea, this banana bread is always a good idea.
The best part? You don’t need to be a pro baker to get it right. With a few ripe bananas and simple pantry staples, you can make a loaf that tastes just like grandma used to make.
So next time you see bananas turning brown on your counter, don’t toss them—bake some love into a fresh loaf of banana bread instead. Happy baking!
