Old Fashioned Banana Bread Recipe

There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about Old Fashioned Banana Bread. With its moist texture, rich banana flavor, and crunchy walnuts, this simple yet delicious treat is perfect for breakfast, snack, or even dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe brings out the best in overripe bananas. Let’s dive into this timeless recipe that will fill your home with the comforting aroma of fresh-baked banana bread.

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Banana Bread Recipe

This banana bread recipe is the epitome of comfort food. It’s a wonderful way to use up those overly ripe bananas sitting on your counter. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a breeze for beginners.
• Rich flavor: The natural sweetness of the bananas combined with the buttery richness makes for a satisfying bite.
• Customizable: You can easily add in your favorite nuts, chocolate chips, or even spices to tailor it to your liking.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this banana bread recipe so special.

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Using unsalted butter helps control the salt levels in the bread, and ensures a rich, buttery flavor.
• 1 cup white granulated sugar: Provides the perfect amount of sweetness to complement the bananas.
• 2 large eggs: Eggs act as a binder and add structure to the bread.
• 4 large overripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the more flavor they bring. Bananas should have lots of brown spots for maximum sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
• 1 3/4 cups flour: Gives the bread its structure.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda & 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: These leavening agents ensure the bread rises perfectly.
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt: Enhances all the flavors.
• 1 cup chopped walnuts: Provides a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft bread.

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Instructions for Old Fashioned Banana Bread

Here’s how to make this banana bread, step by step:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preparing the oven early ensures it’s at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake.
2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the room-temperature butter and sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. The mixture should become light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs and bananas: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated. Then, mix in the mashed bananas and vanilla. The bananas should be mashed until smooth, but a few small lumps are fine for added texture.
4. Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and chopped walnuts. Stir them together with a fork to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in dense bread. You want to mix just until no streaks of flour remain.
6. Prepare the loaf pan: Spray a standard 8.5 x 4.5-inch loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray or grease it with butter to ensure the bread doesn’t stick.
7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and serve: Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing for best results.

Baking Tips for Perfect Banana Bread

• Don’t overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense, tough banana bread. Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined.
• Check for doneness: Every oven is different, so it’s a good idea to start checking the bread at the 50-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s done.
• Use ripe bananas: The more overripe the bananas, the better. They should have lots of brown spots for the best sweetness and flavor.

Variations & Add-Ins

Want to switch things up? Here are some fun ways to customize your banana bread:

• Chocolate chips: Add 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
• Cinnamon swirl: Sprinkle a cinnamon-sugar mixture in the middle layer of the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Different nuts: Swap out the walnuts for pecans or almonds for a slightly different crunch.
• Coconut flakes: Add shredded coconut for a tropical flair.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using underripe bananas: Bananas that aren’t fully ripe won’t provide enough sweetness, and the bread will lack flavor.
• Overmixing the batter: Overworking the batter can lead to tough banana bread. Always fold the ingredients together gently.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Too much flour or too little liquid can throw off the texture. Be sure to use the right measurements.

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread can be enjoyed in so many ways:

• Serve warm: Slightly warm slices are absolutely delicious, especially with a bit of butter spread on top.
• Make banana bread French toast: Use leftover banana bread slices for a decadent French toast breakfast.
• Pair with coffee or tea: This bread makes a perfect pairing with your favorite hot beverage.

Storage & Freezing Tips

• Storing leftovers: Store any leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Banana bread freezes well. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature or reheat gently in the oven.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this recipe, you’ll need:

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Fork or potato masher (for mashing bananas)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Standard loaf pan (8.5 x 4.5-inch)
• Non-stick cooking spray
• Spatula

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make banana bread without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute eggs with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water).

Can I freeze banana bread batter?
It’s best to freeze baked banana bread. However, you can freeze the batter in the loaf pan, then bake it straight from the freezer. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Why is my banana bread dry?
Dry banana bread often results from using too much flour or overbaking. Make sure to measure the ingredients carefully and check the bread’s doneness early.

Conclusion

There’s nothing like the satisfaction of baking homemade banana bread. This Old Fashioned Banana Bread Recipe is a simple yet delightful way to enjoy the natural sweetness of overripe bananas, enhanced by the crunch of walnuts. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack, it’s a recipe that everyone will love. Try it today and experience the comfort of this classic treat.

Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more delicious, easy-to-follow recipes!

Print