Description
This classic Old Fashioned Banana Bread recipe delivers moist, flavorful banana bread just like your grandmother used to make. Featuring ripe bananas, warm cinnamon, and optional crunchy nuts, this loaf is perfect for breakfast, snack time, or a comforting dessert. The recipe uses traditional baking techniques and simple ingredients to achieve a tender crumb and delicious taste that’s nostalgic and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Wet 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
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Optional Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure the banana bread releases easily after baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This helps incorporate air for a tender texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract to add depth of flavor.
- Mix in Bananas and Milk: Add the mashed ripe bananas and whole milk to the wet mixture. Mix until well combined to create the banana base for the bread.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon if using. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.
- Fold Dry Ingredients into Wet: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender and light.
- Add Nuts (Optional): If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula to promote even baking.
- Bake the Bread: Bake for 60-70 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This indicates the bread is fully cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy this classic treat!
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas for maximum flavor and sweetness.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense bread.
- You can substitute milk with buttermilk or yogurt for a tangy flavor.
- Walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch but are optional if you prefer nut-free bread.
- Store leftover banana bread wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American