Why Make This Recipe
Grandma’s Banana Bread is a classic that brings back warm memories for many. It is a simple and comforting treat that is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. The soft texture and sweet banana flavor make it a favorite in many households. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up overripe bananas that you might have lying around. When you bake this bread, it fills your kitchen with a delicious aroma that makes everyone feel at home.
How to Make Grandma’s Banana Bread
Ingredients:
3 cups sugar
1 cup margarine, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 eggs
3.5 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
0.25 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
6 very ripe bananas, mashed
Directions:
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, cream together the sugar and margarine until light and fluffy. Stir in the eggs one at a time, beating well with each addition, then stir in the vanilla.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Blend this mixture into the egg mixture, alternating with the buttermilk; stir just to combine. Fold in the mashed bananas, mixing just enough to evenly combine. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean, about 60 minutes.
How to Serve Grandma’s Banana Bread
For serving, slice the banana bread and enjoy it warm or at room temperature. You can spread a little butter on top for extra flavor. It goes well with coffee or tea, making it a delightful choice for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
How to Store Grandma’s Banana Bread
To store Grandma’s Banana Bread, let it cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it at room temperature for a few days. For longer storage, place it in the refrigerator, where it can last up to a week. You can also freeze the bread by wrapping it tightly in plastic and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay fresh for up to three months. Just thaw it out before serving!
Tips to Make Grandma’s Banana Bread
- Use overripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Make sure to cream the sugar and margarine well for a light texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix just enough to combine the ingredients.
- You can add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor variations.
Variation
If you want to experiment, try adding some chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking. You can also replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
FAQs
1. Can I make this banana bread without buttermilk?
Yes! You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk or make a quick substitute by mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for a few minutes.
2. How can I make the banana bread more moist?
Ensure that you use very ripe bananas, as they have more moisture and sweetness. Adding an extra banana can also help keep the bread moist.
3. Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely! Frozen bananas work great in banana bread. Just thaw them and mash them before adding them to the batter.