Moist, tender, and filled with rich banana flavor, this banana bread recipe captures the nostalgic charm of a homemade classic. With its golden crust and soft interior, this loaf is a timeless treat that’s easy to make and utterly satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it delivers a moist and flavorful banana bread, just like the one my grandmother used to make. It’s simple to prepare with ingredients I likely already have in my pantry. The optional cinnamon and nuts add a delightful twist, but the bread stands strong on its own. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 medium bananas)
1/4 cup whole milk
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Add the mashed bananas and milk, mixing until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Gradually fold this dry mixture into the banana mixture, stirring just enough to combine. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
If using, fold in the chopped nuts.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the surface with a spatula.
Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Variations
Add-ins: Mix in chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or shredded coconut for extra flavor.
Spices: Try nutmeg or allspice instead of cinnamon for a unique twist.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives.
Sugar Substitute: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or honey for a natural sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
Room Temperature: Store banana bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Extend freshness by refrigerating for up to 7 days, tightly wrapped.
Freezer: Slice the bread, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
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FAQs
How ripe should my bananas be for banana bread?
The riper the bananas, the better. I use bananas with brown spots or even completely black skins for the sweetest and most flavorful bread.
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, frozen bananas work well. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing and adding to the batter.
Why is my banana bread dry?
Overmixing or using too much flour can make banana bread dry. Be sure to measure the flour accurately and mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Can I make this recipe into muffins?
Absolutely! Divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
What can I do with leftover banana bread?
Leftover banana bread makes a great base for bread pudding or French toast. Toast slices and spread with butter for a delicious snack.
Conclusion
This old-fashioned banana bread brings back the comfort of simpler times with its classic flavor and soft texture. It’s a recipe that’s easy to customize, store, and share. Whether you enjoy it plain, with a pat of butter, or alongside a hot cup of tea, this banana bread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
📖 Recipe:
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Old Fashioned Banana Bread Like Your Grandmother Made
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Moist, tender, and packed with rich banana flavor, this old-fashioned banana bread is a nostalgic treat. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this easy-to-make recipe brings the comforting charm of homemade baking to your kitchen.
Ingredients
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 medium bananas)
1/4 cup whole milk
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Cream butter and sugar together in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add mashed bananas and milk, mixing until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Fold the dry mixture into the banana mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- If using, fold in chopped nuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
Use overripe bananas with brown or black skins for the best flavor.
Optional add-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit can be mixed into the batter for variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Bread, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 slices
- Calories: 230 kcal
