Mrs. Myers’ Banana Bread

Why Make This Recipe

Mrs. Myers’ Banana Bread is a beloved classic for many good reasons. It brings together simple ingredients to create a moist and flavorful loaf that bursts with banana goodness. Whether you’re using up ripe bananas or just craving a homemade treat, this recipe is perfect for family gatherings, breakfast, or a sweet snack.

How to Make Mrs. Myers’ Banana Bread

Ingredients:

• 2 cups (424 g) sugar
• 1 cup (226 g) butter, softened
• 3 cups (384 g) sifted flour (or not… I never sift)
• 1 tsp. baking soda
• 1 tsp. table salt or 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt
• 4 to 5 eggs, see notes above
• 2 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1 cup nuts, optional (I never add nuts)
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 quart mashed bananas, about 6 to 8 (ripe to overripe)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Butter two 8.5 x 4.5-inch loaf pans generously to ensure no sticking.
2. In a stand mixer, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. With the mixer on low, add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
5. Add the vanilla, buttermilk, and mashed bananas to the mixture.
6. Gradually add the flour mixture in two additions, mixing until just combined.
7. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans.
8. Bake for approximately 1 hour.
9. Remove from the oven and turn the loaves out onto a cooling rack immediately. Allow to cool.

How to Serve Mrs. Myers’ Banana Bread

Mrs. Myers’ Banana Bread is delicious served warm or at room temperature. You can slice it and enjoy it plain, or spread a little butter on top for extra richness. It also pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea.

How to Store Mrs. Myers’ Banana Bread

To store Mrs. Myers’ Banana Bread, wrap the loaves tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it at room temperature for a few days or place it in the refrigerator for longer freshness. If you want to keep it for even longer, you can freeze the loaves. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

Tips to Make Mrs. Myers’ Banana Bread

• Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor. The browner, the better!
• If you prefer a nuttier flavor, feel free to add chopped walnuts or pecans.
• Don’t overmix the batter; mixing until just combined helps keep the bread tender.

Variation

For a chocolate twist, you can add chocolate chips into the batter before baking. This adds a delightful extra sweetness that pairs perfectly with the banana flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Thaw them first and then mash them before adding to the batter.

2. How can I make this banana bread gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1.

3. How do I know when the bread is done baking?
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!