Aunt Margaret'S Banana Bread
A moist, flavorful banana bread with nutmeg and ripe bananas, perfect for breakfast or snack. Suitable for bakers seeking a classic, comforting treat with warm spices.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add shortening, sugar, eggs, and bananas one at a time and beat well after each addition.
- Add flour, soda, nutmeats, and salt; stir with a spoon until just combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and bake for 1 hour at 375°F (190°C).
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of shortening. If you're out of shortening, coconut oil or applesauce can serve as substitutes. Ensure your bananas are very ripe for the best sweetness and moisture. Adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract can elevate the flavor further. If you prefer a nuttier taste, try using walnuts instead of nutmeats.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Margaret's Banana Bread warm, perhaps with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee for breakfast or an afternoon snack. For a delightful twist, enjoy it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of cheesecake. This bread also complements dishes like Sweet Green Pea Casserole for a well-rounded meal.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze slices for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave a slice for about 15-20 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Margaret'S Banana Bread contains roughly 990 calories, with 9g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 857mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, frozen bananas work well for banana bread! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing. This will ensure your batter maintains the right consistency and moisture level.
How can I tell when the banana bread is done baking?
To check if the banana bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, it's ready. If not, continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, keeping an eye on it to avoid over-baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).