Imagine the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through your kitchen, a nostalgic reminder of family gatherings and cherished moments. This "Great Grandma Banana Bread" recipe is not just any ordinary loaf; it's a delightful blend of ripe bananas, melted butter, and a touch of vanilla that will have you reaching for seconds! With just 15 minutes of prep time and an hour in the oven, you can create a scrumptious treat that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet irresistible recipe that’s been passed down through generations!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 75 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 loaf
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 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure the oven rack is positioned in the center for even baking.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the 3 ripe bananas with a fork or a potato masher until smooth. The bananas should be well mashed with no large chunks remaining.
- Add the 1/3 cup melted butter to the mashed bananas and mix until fully combined.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of baking soda and a pinch of salt into the banana mixture. This will help the bread rise and enhance its flavor.
- Add 3/4 cup sugar to the mixture and stir well until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Beat 1 large egg in a separate bowl and then add it to the banana mixture along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until the egg and vanilla are fully integrated.
- Gradually add 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour to the mixture, folding it in gently. Be careful not to overmix; stir just until the flour is combined and no dry spots remain.
- Prepare a loaf pan by greasing it lightly with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Pour the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- After 10 minutes, carefully remove the loaf from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Enjoy your Great Grandma Banana Bread warm or at room temperature, plain or with butter!
Tips
- Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots for the best results.
- Don’t Overmix: When adding the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so be gentle!
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your banana bread a few minutes before the 60-minute mark. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean when it's ready.
- Add Extras: For a twist, consider adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Cool Properly: Allow your banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Storage Tips: Keep your banana bread wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for longer freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 200kcal
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 35mg