I have always loved my grandma’s banana bread recipe. It’s a family tradition that has been passed down for generations, and it never fails to bring back fond memories of my childhood. Whenever I take a bite of this delicious bread, I am teleported back to my grandma’s kitchen, where I used to help her mix the ingredients and wait anxiously for the bread to come out of the oven. (Needless to say, I secretly tasted the batter and licked the whisks and spoons!)
The recipe itself is quite simple, but it’s the little touches that make it so special. My grandma always used overripe bananas, which give the bread a sweet, moist flavor that is hard to resist. She also added a touch of vanilla extract, which gives the bread a warm, comforting aroma that fills the house as it bakes. And of course, she always used her trusty old loaf pan, which has been in our family for years and has baked countless loaves of banana bread.
What is Banana Bread?
Banana bread is a type of bread that is made using mashed bananas as a primary ingredient. It is a sweet, moist, and dense bread that is often served as a dessert or a snack. Banana bread can be baked in a loaf pan, muffin tin, or even as a cake.
The origins of banana bread can be traced back to the Great Depression when people were looking for ways to use overripe bananas that would otherwise go to waste. The first banana bread recipe was published in a cookbook by Pillsbury in 1933.
Today, banana bread is a popular baked good that can be found in bakeries, cafes, and homes around the world. It is a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit individual tastes by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or other ingredients. Banana bread is also a great way to use up overripe bananas that might otherwise be thrown away.
Why is Banana Bread so Popular?
Banana bread is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed by many for generations. It’s a simple yet delicious treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. But why is banana bread so popular?
One reason is that it’s incredibly easy to make. All you need are a few ripe bananas, some flour, sugar, eggs, and butter, and you’re good to go. There’s no need for any fancy equipment or complicated techniques. This simplicity makes it a great option for beginner bakers or those who are short on time. You simply use staple ingredients in your pantry in addition to bananas.
Another reason for its popularity is that it’s a great way to use up ripe bananas. Most people have experienced the frustration of having a bunch of bananas that are starting to turn brown and spotty. Instead of throwing them away, banana bread provides a tasty solution to reduce food waste. Plus, it stores well, giving some more time to enjoy your ripe bananas!
During the pandemic, banana bread had a major moment. With people being stuck at home, many turned to baking as a way to pass the time and find comfort. Banana bread was a popular choice because it’s a nostalgic treat that reminds people of their childhood. Plus, it’s a comforting and familiar food that can provide a sense of security during uncertain times.
So, banana bread’s popularity can be attributed to its simplicity, versatility, and comforting qualities. It’s a classic dessert that will always have a place in our hearts and our kitchens.
Recipe for My Grandma’s Banana Bread
I have been making my grandma’s banana bread recipe for years now, and it never fails to impress my family and friends. Here is the recipe that has been passed down in my family for generations:
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 3 overripe bananas, mashed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 °F (175 °C).
- Lightly grease an 8×4-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until smooth.
- Add in the mashed bananas and eggs, and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk.
- Finally, stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 60—65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing it to a wire rack to cool completely.
This recipe makes a deliciously moist and flavorful banana bread that is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or just as a snack. It’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Give it a try and taste the love that has been baked into this family recipe for generations.
Nutritional Information
For someone who is mindful of their diet, it’s good to know the nutritional information of the food you are eating. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content of Grandma’s banana bread recipe.
Calorie Count
One slice of Grandma’s banana bread contains approximately 226 calories. While this is not a low-calorie food, it can be enjoyed as an occasional treat as part of a balanced diet.
Fat Content
Grandma’s banana bread is relatively high in fat, with 7.1 grams of fat per slice.
Protein and Fiber
Each slice of Grandma’s banana bread contains 3.1 grams of protein and 0.7 grams of fiber. While this is not a significant amount of either nutrient, it can contribute to your daily intake.
Vitamins and Minerals
Grandma’s banana bread is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals. However, bananas are a good source of potassium, which is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
It’s important to note that the nutritional content of Grandma’s banana bread may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used and the size of the slice. However, this breakdown provides a general idea of what you can expect from this classic recipe.
Variations of the Recipe
As with any recipe, there are many variations of grandma’s banana bread recipe. Here are a few popular ones:
Adding Nuts
Adding nuts to grandma’s banana bread recipe is a great way to add some texture and flavor. Walnuts are a popular choice, but you can use any chopped nuts that you like. Here’s how to add nuts to the recipe:
- Prepare the batter according to the recipe.
- Fold in 1 cup of chopped nuts.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9″x5″ loaf pan.
- Bake for 50—60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Including Chocolate Chips
If you have a sweet tooth, you might want to try adding chocolate chips to grandma’s banana bread recipe. Here’s how to do it:
- Prepare the batter according to the recipe.
- Fold in 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9″x5″ loaf pan.
- Bake for 50—60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
You can also try using different types of chocolate chips, such as dark chocolate or white chocolate, for a different flavor.
Remember, these are just a few variations of grandma’s banana bread recipe. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and find your own favorite version.
Storage and Freezing
When it comes to storing grandma’s banana bread, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure it stays fresh and delicious. First and foremost, it’s important to let the bread cool completely before storing it. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the container and making the bread soggy.
Once the bread has cooled, there are a few different ways you can store it. One option is to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to five days. Another option is to store it in an airtight container, which will help prevent it from drying out. Either way, be sure to keep the bread in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
If you’re not planning on eating the banana bread right away, you may want to consider freezing it. Banana bread freezes exceptionally well and can be kept in the freezer for up to three months.
To freeze the bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. Be sure to label the container with the date so you know how long it has been in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy the bread, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature. This will take a few hours, depending on the size of the loaf. You can also speed up the thawing process by placing the bread in the refrigerator overnight.
Needless to say, you can also slice the bread and freeze the slices (tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.)
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, my grandma’s banana bread recipe is a true family favorite. It’s a homemade treat that’s perfect for any occasion you can imagine and it’s true comfort food. The recipe is easy to follow and yields a moist and tender loaf of bread that’s delicious on its own or with a smear of butter. I love to eat banana bread slathered with creamy peanut butter.
I adore how quick this banana bread is to whip up. It takes just 10 minutes to prep and less than an hour to bake. Plus, the recipe uses simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry.
One of the things I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can add in chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruit to make it your own. It’s a dessert that’s perfect for any season and any taste preference. Add chopped dried cranberries and apricots for a holiday version!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the secret ingredient in grandma’s famous banana bread recipe?
Well, I can tell you that grandma’s famous banana bread recipe is a family favorite for a reason. The secret ingredient my grandma used is: love. It’s most likely something that you might not expect, and it adds a touch of comfort to the bread.
How long does it take to make old fashioned banana bread?
Grandma’s old fashioned banana bread recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 1 hour to bake. So, in total, it takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes to make. But, trust me, it’s worth the wait! (And you can get a pre-taste of the treat if you lick the spatula!)
What makes grandma’s easy banana bread recipe so easy?
Grandma’s easy banana bread recipe is so easy because it only requires a few simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Plus, it doesn’t require any fancy equipment or techniques. All you need is a mixing bowl, a spoon/spatula, and a loaf pan.
What is the best way to store banana bread made from a 100 year old recipe?
The best way to store banana bread made from a 100 year old recipe is to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for 3 months.
Can you freeze banana bread made from the best banana bread recipe for 2 loaves?
Yes, you can freeze banana bread made from the best banana bread recipe for 2 loaves. To freeze, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, just thaw it at room temperature for a few hours.
How can I make moist banana bread using 3 bananas and oil?
To make moist banana bread using 3 bananas and oil, you can try adding a little bit of applesauce or yogurt to the batter. This will add moisture and keep the bread from drying out. You can also try using brown sugar instead of white sugar, as it contains more moisture. And, make sure not to overmix the batter, as this can make the bread tough and dry.
