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    A golden-brown loaf of banana bread sits on a wooden cutting board, with one slice cut and leaning against it, revealing a moist crumb and chunks of walnut.

    Grandma's Old-Fashioned Banana Bread

    The perfect way to use up overripe bananas, this old-fashioned banana bread is incredibly moist, flavorful, and easy to make.

    Prep: 15 minCook: 60 minTotal: 75 min1 loaf (10-12 slices)250 cal

    About This Recipe Recipe

    There's a special kind of magic that happens when you transform a bunch of overripe, spotty bananas into a warm, fragrant loaf of banana bread. It's a culinary alchemy that grandmothers have perfected over the years, a thrifty and delicious solution to the problem of what to do with bananas that are past their prime. This recipe for Grandma's Old-Fashioned Banana Bread is a celebration of that simple, homespun magic. It's a recipe that's as much about creating memories as it is about baking. The aroma of banana bread baking is a universal signal of comfort and home, a warm and inviting scent that promises a sweet treat and a moment of pure, simple pleasure. This isn't a fancy, complicated dessert; it's a humble, honest loaf of bread, made with simple ingredients and a lot of love. It's incredibly moist and tender, with a rich, sweet banana flavor that's perfectly balanced by a hint of cinnamon. Every slice is a taste of nostalgia, a reminder of childhood and the comforting presence of a grandmother's kitchen. It's the perfect treat for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a simple dessert.

    Grandma's Old-Fashioned Banana Bread Ingredients

    • 3 -4 very ripe bananas, mashed
    • 1/3 cup melted butter
    • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
    • 1 large egg, beaten
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 teaspoon baking soda
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
    Need to convert units? Use our Smart Kitchen Converter

    How to Make Grandma's Old-Fashioned Banana Bread

    1. 1

      Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan.

    2. 2

      In a large bowl, mix together the mashed bananas, melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.

    3. 3

      In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

    4. 4

      Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix. Fold in the nuts, if using.

    5. 5

      Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

    6. 6

      Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached.

    7. 7

      Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

    Chef's Tips

    • Use very ripe, almost black bananas for the best flavor and moisture.
    • Do not overmix the batter; mix until just combined for a tender crumb.
    • Let the banana bread cool completely before slicing for the cleanest cuts.

    Nutrition Facts

    250

    Calories

    4g

    Protein

    11g

    Fat

    35g

    Carbs

    Serving Suggestions

    This old-fashioned banana bread is perfect on its own, but it’s also delicious with a variety of toppings. Try a schmear of cream cheese, a dollop of peanut butter, or a drizzle of honey. It’s a wonderful breakfast treat with a cup of coffee or tea, or a comforting afternoon snack.