Description
Enjoy a classic Old Fashioned Banana Bread just like your grandmother used to make. This moist and flavorful banana bread features ripe bananas, warm cinnamon, and optional nuts for a tender crumb and comforting taste. Perfect as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack, this recipe is simple and uses everyday ingredients for a nostalgic homemade delight.
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 Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure the banana bread doesn’t stick.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color, which creates a tender crumb.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Incorporate Bananas and Milk: Mix in the mashed ripe bananas and whole milk until well combined, adding moisture and banana flavor to the batter.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon if using, to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
- Fold Dry Ingredients into Wet: Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the banana batter, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing which can make the bread tough.
- Add Nuts (Optional): If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans to add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Transfer to Pan and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, ensuring it is fully cooked.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then remove and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving to maintain its shape and texture.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- For a dairy-free variation, substitute milk with almond milk or another plant-based milk.
- Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added to keep the bread moist and tender.
- Adding nuts is optional but recommended for added texture and flavor.
- Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
