This Old-Fashioned Banana Bread is a true back-to-basics recipe that brings warmth and nostalgia into your kitchen. Made with ripe bananas and a few simple pantry staples, this loaf bakes up moist, tender, and packed with natural banana flavor. It’s the kind of recipe that never goes out of style—perfect for breakfast, snacks, or whenever you need a cozy pick-me-up. No fancy tools needed, just a bowl, a spoon, and an oven.
Why You’ll Love Old-Fashioned Banana Bread
Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your pantry.
- One-Bowl Wonder: Less mess, less cleanup.
- Moist and Flavorful: Ripe bananas keep the crumb tender and sweet.
- Beginner Friendly: Foolproof even if it’s your first time baking.
- Versatile: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices if you like.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray. Alternatively, line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, peel and mash the 3 ripe bananas using a fork until smooth and slightly chunky.
Mix in Wet Ingredients
Stir in 1/2 cup melted butter directly into the mashed bananas until fully combined.
Add Sugar, Egg, and Vanilla
Add 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 beaten egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the banana mixture. Stir until smooth and well-blended.
Add Leavening and Salt
Sprinkle 1 teaspoon baking soda and a pinch of salt evenly over the mixture. Stir to combine.
Fold in the Flour
Add 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour to the bowl. Gently fold the flour into the mixture until just combined. Do not overmix—it’s okay if the batter is a bit lumpy.
Pour and Smooth
Pour the banana bread batter into the greased loaf pan. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly.
Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes. Start checking at the 55-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.
Cool and Remove from Pan
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then run a knife along the edges and transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips and Variations
- Use Very Ripe Bananas: The darker the peels, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until flour disappears to keep the bread tender.
- Add-Ins: For variety, try 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a pat of butter for a classic treat.
- Toast slices and top with peanut butter or honey.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast.
- Turn leftovers into banana bread French toast!
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature: Wrap in plastic or foil and store for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temp or microwave for 20–30 seconds.
- Reheat: Toast or warm in the microwave for a fresh-from-the-oven experience.
Notes
- Always use bananas with brown spots for the best texture and flavor.
- Let bread cool before slicing to prevent crumbling.
- For a more rustic look, slice a banana in half lengthwise and place it on top of the batter before baking.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes! Just thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
What if I don’t have baking soda?
You can substitute 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, but the texture may vary slightly.
Can I make muffins with this batter?
Absolutely. Just divide into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes.
Why is my banana bread too dense?
Overmixing is often the culprit. Stir gently and stop once everything is just combined.
Conclusion
There’s a reason this Old-Fashioned Banana Bread has stood the test of time—it’s easy, comforting, and always delicious. Whether you’re baking for the first time or the hundredth, this recipe delivers perfect results with every loaf. So grab those ripe bananas and rediscover the simple joy of home baking.