How to Make Old Fashioned Banana Bread That Everyone Loves

There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of freshly baked banana bread wafting through the house, isn’t there? It takes me back to my childhood, where my grandma would whip up her famous Old Fashioned Banana Bread on lazy Sunday afternoons. If you’re like me and love a good slice of moist, dense banana bread, then you’re in for a treat! This recipe is not only simple but also uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Plus, it’s perfect for those quick family dinners when you want something sweet to round off the meal. So, let’s dive into this delightful journey of baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Uses simple ingredients that you probably already have at home.
• Yields a moist, fluffy banana bread that everyone will adore.
• Great for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert!
• Can be customized with nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Old Fashioned Banana Bread, you will need the following ingredients:

• 3 medium-size bananas, extra ripe (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 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s get to the fun part—baking! Follow these simple steps to create the most moist banana bread:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°. Spray a 9X5 loaf pan with nonstick spray and line the bottom and two sides with parchment paper.
2. Add the 3 extra ripe bananas to a large bowl. Using a fork, mash the bananas until smooth. Then, add the sugar and mix to combine.
3. Stir in the eggs, vanilla extract, and canola oil until well blended.
4. Sift the flour, baking soda, and salt together. Then, add this dry mixture to the banana mixture. Stir just until combined; be careful not to overmix!
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Let the banana bread cool completely before removing it from the pan.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your banana bread turns out perfectly every time:

• Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture. The more brown spots, the better!
• Don’t skip the sifting step; it helps to aerate the flour, resulting in a lighter texture.
• For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
• If you want to make this a sticky banana bread, drizzle some honey or maple syrup on top before serving.
• For a twist, try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.

How to Serve

This banana bread is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience:

• Serve warm with a pat of butter for a comforting treat.
• Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Top with cream cheese frosting for a decadent dessert option.
• Slice it up and serve it at brunch alongside some easy pasta recipes for a well-rounded meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

This banana bread is perfect for making ahead of time! Here’s how to store it:

• Wrap the cooled banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the banana bread. Wrap it well and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 3 months!
• To thaw, simply leave it at room temperature for a few hours or microwave it for a quick warm-up.

So there you have it! A simple yet delicious recipe for Old Fashioned Banana Bread that will surely become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to enjoy with your morning coffee or a delightful dessert to impress your guests, this recipe has got you covered. Don’t forget to check out more of my Banana Bread recipes and explore Quick and Easy Banana Recipes for more delicious ideas. Happy baking!