When the scent of ripe bananas fills the kitchen, it’s almost impossible not to smile. That’s how this recipe for Old Fashioned Banana Bread came into my life—an irresistible way to transform those overripe beauties that often linger on my counter. You know, the ones that turn from bright yellow to speckled brown? They might not look their best, but trust me, they bring the moisture and sweet banana flavor that make this bread truly exceptional.

This isn’t just any banana bread; it’s a one-bowl wonder that’s perfect for those busy mornings or last-minute snack cravings. No fancy equipment needed here—just a sturdy fork and your two hands to mash, mix, and create a delicious loaf that stays fresh for days. Plus, feel free to get creative! Whether you’re adding a handful of chocolate chips or sprinkling in nuts for crunch, this recipe invites you to make it your own. Let’s dive in and whip up something beautiful!

Why is Old Fashioned Banana Bread so special?

Moisture is key—this recipe guarantees a deliciously moist loaf thanks to those ripe bananas! Simplicity reigns here; with just one bowl needed, even novice bakers can shine. Flavorful ingredients like vanilla and canola oil enrich every bite. Versatility allows you to customize with your favorite mix-ins, from chocolate chips to walnuts. Plus, it’s a perfect crowd-pleaser, ensuring everyone will come back for seconds!

Old Fashioned Banana Bread Ingredients

• The key to this delicious recipe lies in using extra ripe bananas!

For the Batter

Medium-size bananas (extra ripe, mashed) – Ensure they are very ripe with brown spots for maximum sweetness and moisture.
White granulated sugar – Provides the sweetness; brown sugar can be used for a richer flavor.
Canola oil – Adds moisture and richness; feel free to substitute with melted butter or coconut oil for a different taste.
Large eggs (room temperature) – These bind the batter and improve texture, so let them sit out to reach room temperature.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor; pure vanilla extract offers the best taste.
All-purpose flour (sifted) – Creates structure for the bread; avoid packing it by spooning into the measuring cup.
Baking soda – The leavening agent that helps the bread rise beautifully.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor, ensuring a well-rounded taste.

Get ready to create a warm, comforting loaf of Old Fashioned Banana Bread that everyone will love!

How to Make Old Fashioned Banana Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5 inch loaf pan by spraying it with nonstick spray and lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mash 3 extra ripe bananas in a large bowl using a fork until smooth. Stir in 1 cup of white granulated sugar until well combined, creating a sweet, banana-rich base.
Blend in 2 large eggs (at room temperature), 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/3 cup of canola oil. Mix until the mixture is well combined and smooth, inviting that delicious banana aroma.
Sift together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gently fold this dry mixture into the wet banana mixture until just combined—careful not to overmix for a tender crumb!
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool your banana bread in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential for maintaining that lovely moist texture.

Optional: Serve warm with a slather of butter or cream cheese for extra decadence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Old Fashioned Banana Bread?

When it comes to enjoying this delicious loaf, the right pairings can elevate your experience, creating a cozy atmosphere.

Creamy Butter: A spread of rich butter enhances the sweet, moist banana flavor, making each bite even more delightful.
Velvety Cream Cheese: The tanginess of cream cheese complements the sweetness of the banana bread beautifully, adding a luxurious touch.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries provide a burst of freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the bread and adding a pop of color to your plate.
Greek Yogurt: A scoop of creamy Greek yogurt adds protein and a slight tang, creating a perfect contrast with the sweet loaf.
Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey brings an extra layer of sweetness and a lovely stickiness that pairs wonderfully with the bread’s soft texture.

For drinks, consider serving:

Hot Coffee: The warmth and bold flavor of coffee make it a fabulous partner, enhancing the cozy morning vibe.
Herbal Tea: A calming chamomile or refreshing peppermint tea can offer a soothing backdrop to the sweetness of the banana bread.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet:

Chocolate Chip Cookies: For those with a true sweet tooth, these cookies add a comforting, homey feel to your snack time.

Why not gather a few of these delightful pairings to savor alongside your Old Fashioned Banana Bread for a truly heartwarming experience?

How to Store and Freeze Old Fashioned Banana Bread

Room Temperature: Store your banana bread wrapped in plastic wrap or foil at room temperature for up to 4 days to keep it fresh and moist.

Fridge: If you need it to last longer, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 week. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before enjoying!

Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap the cooled banana bread tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its delightful moisture.

Reheating: To enjoy your frozen Old Fashioned Banana Bread, thaw it at room temperature for several hours or overnight in the fridge, and then slice and gently reheat in the microwave or toaster oven for a warm treat!

Old Fashioned Banana Bread Variations

Feel free to sprinkle your personal touch into this recipe and create your perfect loaf of banana bread!

Chocolate Lovers: Stir in 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips for a luscious, gooey surprise in every bite.
Nutty Goodness: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to introduce a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the softness of the bread.
Fruity Twist: Toss in 1 cup of fresh cranberries for a tangy flavor explosion and a pop of color in your banana bread.
Spiced Up: Enhance the flavor by adding 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm and comforting aroma.
Health Boost: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase fiber content, keeping the texture delightful while adding nuttiness.
Coconut Delight: Fold in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical twist that perfectly complements the banana’s sweetness.
Maple Kissed: Replace granulated sugar with 1 cup of maple syrup for a unique, caramel-like sweetness and a moist texture.
Savory Addition: Consider mixing in 1/2 cup of crumbled bacon for an unexpected savory contrast that’s utterly mouthwatering!

With these variations, your Old Fashioned Banana Bread can become a culinary canvas for your creativity, making each loaf uniquely yours!

Expert Tips for Old Fashioned Banana Bread

Choose Ripe Bananas: Ensure your bananas are very ripe with plenty of brown spots; this guarantees maximum moisture and sweetness in your bread.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix your batter just until combined to prevent tough bread; overmixing can lead to a dense final product.
Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm that your oven is at the correct temperature, as uneven baking can lead to inconsistent results.
Let It Cool: Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes; this helps maintain moisture and makes removal easier without falling apart.
Customize Wisely: If adding chocolate chips or nuts, consider slightly reducing the flour to maintain balance in moisture and texture in your Old Fashioned Banana Bread.

Make Ahead Options

These moist and flavorful Old Fashioned Banana Bread loaves are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing taste! You can mash your bananas and prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by storing it in the refrigerator. To maintain its freshness, simply cover your bowl tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven and pour the chilled batter into the prepared loaf pan—your banana bread will still come out just as delicious! Additionally, if you want to bake the banana bread ahead of time, you can cool it completely and store it wrapped in foil for up to 3 days at room temperature, ensuring it’s ready whenever you need a quick treat or breakfast option.

Old Fashioned Banana Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of bananas should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the most delicious Old Fashioned Banana Bread, use medium-size bananas that are very ripe with plenty of brown spots. The riper the bananas, the more natural sweetness and moisture they will contribute to your bread.

How should I store my banana bread to keep it fresh?
To keep your banana bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Just allow it to come back to room temperature before slicing!

Can I freeze Old Fashioned Banana Bread?
Yes, you can! For freezing, let your banana bread cool completely. Then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for several hours.

What should I do if my banana bread is too dense?
If your Old Fashioned Banana Bread turns out too dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. When combining ingredients, mix just until you see no more dry flour—this prevents the development of gluten that can make the bread tough. Another tip is to ensure your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening agents can also lead to denser bread.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
When making this recipe, keep in mind that it contains eggs and can be high in sugar. If you or anyone in your household has egg allergies, you can substitute with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes). Also, feel free to reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet loaf.

Can I add other ingredients to my Old Fashioned Banana Bread?
Very! You can customize your banana bread by adding mix-ins like 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, or even dried fruit. Just be mindful to adjust the flour slightly to maintain the bread’s moisture balance—this helps ensure a beautiful, tender loaf every time.