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Old Fashioned Banana Bread

A cozy banana bread recipe featuring caramelized bananas, warmth from cinnamon, and a hint of vanilla, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour For a healthier option, swap half for whole wheat flour.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Optional but lovely.
Wet Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Sub coconut oil for a dairy-free twist.
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar Reduce to 1/2 cup for a less sweet loaf.
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas About 3 medium bananas, the riper, the sweeter.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt Adds tender crumb and moisture.
Optional Add-ins
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans Optional, can swap for chocolate chips for a sweeter dessert vibe.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined.
Mixing
  1. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until pale and slightly fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
  2. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla. Scrape the bowl to keep the mixture smooth.
  3. Stir in the mashed bananas and sour cream until combined.
  4. Fold in the dry ingredients just until no streaks of flour remain, being careful not to overmix.
  5. Gently fold in the nuts or chocolate chips if using.
Baking
  1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top. If desired, sprinkle a few extra nuts on top.
  2. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  3. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift out by the parchment and cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

For an indulgent dessert, add 1/2 cup chocolate chips; for a festive treat, fold in 1/4 cup dried cranberries and orange peel.