If you are craving a cozy, nostalgic treat that feels like a warm hug from your childhood, this Old Fashioned Banana Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. With its tender crumb, rich banana flavor, and just the right balance of sweetness, this bread is a true classic that never goes out of style. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, the simplicity and timelessness of this Old Fashioned Banana Bread Recipe will quickly make it a staple in your kitchen and a favorite on your family’s table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the secret to that perfect flavor and texture in your banana bread. Each element in this recipe plays a key role, from the creamy butter giving richness, to the mashed bananas providing natural sweetness and moisture, making every bite irresistibly soft and flavorful.
- 1/3 cup butter or vegan butter: Softened for easy mixing and a rich, creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup sugar or coconut sugar: Adds sweetness while coconut sugar offers a subtle caramel note.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, fragrant touch.
- 2 eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure.
- 2 mashed ripe bananas: The star ingredient providing natural sweetness and moisture.
- 2 tablespoons milk or almond milk: Keeps the batter smooth and tender.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise and keep lightness.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Provides an extra lift for a fluffy texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and heightens the other flavors.
- 1 cup flour (can substitute 1/2 whole wheat): Forms the base of the loaf with a tender crumb.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, pecans or chocolate chips (optional): Adds crunchy texture or indulgent bursts of chocolate.
How to Make Old Fashioned Banana Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This simple prep ensures your banana bread bakes evenly without sticking, setting the foundation for baking success.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and sugar together on medium-high speed for about 2 minutes. You want the mixture to become light and fluffy — this process incorporates air to give your bread a lovely tender texture that you will love.
Step 3: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Bananas
Next, add the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl so everything blends evenly. Then fold in the mashed bananas until they are fully incorporated, infusing the batter with delicious natural banana goodness.
Step 4: Combine Milk and Leaveners
Heat the milk just until it boils, either in a microwave or on the stove. Stir in the baking soda, then immediately add this foaming mixture to your batter, along with baking powder, salt, and flour. Beat the mixture gently until just combined, taking care not to overmix. This combination helps create that classic lift and crumb you expect from an Old Fashioned Banana Bread Recipe.
Step 5: Fold in Nuts or Chocolate Chips
If you love some added crunch or sweetness, fold in your choice of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips now. These mix-ins elevate the banana bread with tasty textures and surprise bursts of flavor in every bite.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and slide it into the oven. Bake for around 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. After baking, let the bread cool on a wire rack to set its structure and achieve the perfect sliceable texture.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Banana Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A simple spread of butter or a drizzle of honey can complement the subtle sweetness of the banana bread beautifully. For a fancier touch, top with a smear of cream cheese frosting or a sprinkle of powdered sugar to make it feel extra special.
Side Dishes
Old Fashioned Banana Bread Recipe pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal breakfast treat or afternoon snack. You can also serve it alongside fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced and satisfying snack.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the banana bread thick and toast it lightly before serving—this brings out its nutty aromas and adds a gentle crunch. You can also turn it into a decadent dessert by layering slices with ice cream or spreading with almond butter and sliced bananas for a delightful sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, wrap your banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy slices without losing any of that delightful moisture.
Freezing
Old Fashioned Banana Bread Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months, making it great for prepping ahead or saving a batch for later cravings.
Reheating
To revive your banana bread after storing, warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds. This brings back the soft texture and releases the wonderful aromas, making each bite taste freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use overripe bananas?
Absolutely! Overripe bananas with brown spots are perfect for this Old Fashioned Banana Bread Recipe because they are sweeter and mash easily, enhancing the flavor and moistness of your bread.
Is it okay to substitute eggs in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute eggs with flax eggs or other vegan options if you need an egg-free version. Keep in mind the texture may vary slightly, but your bread will still be delicious.
Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?
With a few adjustments using gluten-free flour blends, you can successfully make this recipe gluten-free. Just ensure your baking powder and other ingredients are also gluten-free for the best results.
Why does the banana bread sometimes turn out dry?
Overbaking or using bananas that are not ripe enough can cause dryness. Make sure to bake until just done and use ripe bananas to keep your bread moist and tender.
Can I add other mix-ins besides nuts or chocolate chips?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with dried fruit, shredded coconut, or even a swirl of peanut butter to customize this Old Fashioned Banana Bread Recipe to your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Old Fashioned Banana Bread Recipe is truly a timeless delight that brings joy with every bite. Its comforting flavors and straightforward method make it a fantastic go-to for any occasion. I invite you to bake a loaf today and experience the heartwarming magic of banana bread fresh from your own kitchen.
Print
Old Fashioned Banana Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (approximately 10-12 slices)
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Old Fashioned Banana Bread recipe is a classic, moist, and flavorful treat made with ripe bananas, a hint of vanilla, and optional nuts or chocolate chips. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, it combines simple ingredients with straightforward steps to deliver a delicious homemade loaf.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1/3 cup butter or vegan butter (softened)
- 2 eggs
- 2 mashed ripe bananas
- 2 tablespoons milk or almond milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sugar or coconut sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup flour (can substitute 1/2 whole wheat if you wish)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, pecans or chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, use a hand-held or stand mixer on medium-high speed to beat the softened butter and sugar together for about 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add vanilla, eggs, and bananas: Add the vanilla extract and then the eggs one at a time, beating for about 1 minute and scraping the bowl sides as needed. Incorporate the mashed bananas into the batter and mix thoroughly.
- Prepare baking soda milk and mix dry ingredients: Heat the milk in a small saucepan or microwave until just boiling. Stir in the baking soda carefully to allow foaming. Pour this mixture into the batter along with baking powder, salt, and flour. Beat gently just until combined, scraping the bowl sides to incorporate all ingredients thoroughly.
- Fold in nuts or chocolate chips: Gently fold in the chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips if using, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
- Bake the bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
- You can substitute regular sugar with coconut sugar for a slightly different flavor and lower glycemic index.
- Using vegan butter and almond milk makes this recipe dairy-free and suitable for vegans if eggs are substituted with egg replacer.
- Allowing bananas to be very ripe will increase sweetness and moisture in the bread.
- Adding nuts or chocolate chips is optional but adds texture and flavor contrast.
- Do not overmix the batter after adding flour to keep the bread tender.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to ensure clean slices and better texture.
