Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through your home. This old-fashioned banana bread recipe is the perfect way to use up those ripe bananas sitting on your counter, transforming them into a moist, rich, and utterly delightful loaf. Whether enjoyed as a quick breakfast, a comforting snack, or a sweet dessert, this banana bread is sure to warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60-65 minutes
Total Time: 70-75 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 4×8 inch loaf pan to ensure your bread releases easily after baking.
- In a mixing bowl, use a fork to mash the ripe bananas until smooth. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be!
- Pour the melted butter into the mashed bananas, and mix until well combined.
- Add the baking soda and a pinch of salt to the mixture, stirring gently just until incorporated.
- Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, creating a rich and inviting batter.
- Gradually mix in the flour, stirring until just combined – be careful not to overmix, as this will keep your banana bread lovely and tender.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top for an even bake.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly cracked, hinting at the delightful texture inside.
- Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then gently transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. The waiting is the hardest part, but trust me – it will be worth it!
Notes or Tips
- For an extra pop of flavor, consider adding some chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or a handful of chocolate chips to the batter!
- If you prefer a more complex flavor, try swirling in a tablespoon of cinnamon or nutmeg.
- This banana bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for a delightful treat any time!
Cooking Techniques
Mashing the bananas thoroughly is key to achieving a smooth and creamy texture in your banana bread. Make sure to avoid overmixing once you add the flour—this will help keep the bread tender and soft. If using nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in gently to avoid breaking up the batter’s structure.
FAQ
Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely! Frozen bananas work beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them and drain off any excess liquid before mashing.
How do I know when my banana bread is done?
The toothpick test is your best friend here. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your banana bread is ready!
Conclusion
This old-fashioned banana bread recipe is a true classic that transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. Perfectly moist and bursting with flavor, it’s a delicious treat that you won’t soon forget. So gather those ripe bananas, and let your kitchen fill with warmth and sweetness — there’s simply nothing more comforting than a loaf of homemade banana bread!