Introduction
There’s something about the aroma of freshly baked banana bread that fills a kitchen with warmth and nostalgia. It’s a recipe that brings back memories of home, laughter, and the simple joys of baking. This old-fashioned banana bread is moist, flavorful, and the perfect way to use up those ripe bananas sitting on your countertop. With just a handful of ingredients, you too can whip up a loaf that’s sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into making this delightful treat!
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 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 65 minutes
Total Time: 80 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 4×8-inch loaf pan with a little butter or non-stick spray.
- In a mixing bowl, use a fork to mash the ripe bananas until they are smooth and creamy. The riper the bananas, the sweeter your bread will be!
- Once your bananas are mashed, stir in the melted butter until well combined.
- Add the baking soda and a pinch of salt to the mixture, stirring it in to evenly distribute.
- Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, blending until you achieve a homogeneous mixture.
- Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour, being careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
- Pour the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even bake.
- Bake in your preheated oven for about 60-65 minutes. The bread is done when it’s golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, let your banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then gently turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. The waiting is the hardest part!
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or even some chocolate chips for a delicious twist. This banana bread also freezes beautifully, so feel free to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw it at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy a slice!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe relies on a straightforward technique of mashing and mixing, making it friendly for bakers of all skill levels. The key to a moist banana bread lies in not overmixing the batter. This helps to maintain that tender crumb that we all love. Additionally, let the bananas do the talking; their natural sweetness is what makes this bread delightful!
FAQ
Can I use frozen bananas? Absolutely! Just thaw them first and mash them as you would fresh ones.
How can I tell when my banana bread is done? A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
What’s the best way to store banana bread? Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the freezer for longer storage.
Conclusion
This old-fashioned banana bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a wonderful way to bring comfort and warmth into your home. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat or a sweet snack in the afternoon, each slice promises a burst of homemade goodness. So gather those bananas, preheat the oven, and let the delightful aroma of banana bread fill your kitchen!