“`html
Introduction
Welcome to your new favorite go-to recipe for Old Fashioned Banana Bread! This classic treat is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert. With its moist texture and delightful banana flavor, it’s hard to resist a warm slice right out of the oven. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your countertop!
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 cup all-purpose flour
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 65 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 4×8 inch loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
- Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas.
- Mix in the baking soda and salt.
- Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Mix in the flour until just incorporated.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter.
- Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best sweetness and texture.
- If you have leftover banana bread, store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
- This recipe can easily be doubled to make two loaves for sharing or freezing.
Cooking Techniques
Achieving the perfect banana bread involves a few essential techniques. It’s important to mash the bananas thoroughly to ensure a smooth batter. Mixing the ingredients just until combined will keep your bread tender. Lastly, checking for doneness with a toothpick is crucial; it should come out clean without overbaking.
FAQ
- Can I freeze banana bread? Yes, it freezes beautifully! Wrap it well in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container.
- What can I substitute for eggs? You can use applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixed with water as a substitute.
- How do I know when the banana bread is done? Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready!
- Can I use whole wheat flour? Absolutely! Just note that it may change the texture slightly.
Conclusion
There you have it! This Old Fashioned Banana Bread recipe is simple, comforting, and oh-so-delicious. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or saving it for later, each bite is bound to bring a smile to your face. Happy baking!
“`