Banana Bran Nut Bread
A moist, hearty banana bread enriched with bran and nuts, perfect for breakfast or snacks, offering wholesome flavor and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine egg, mashed bananas, melted shortening, and bran in a mixing bowl.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar in a separate bowl.
- Add chopped nut meats to the dry ingredients and mix well.
- Add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, mixing only enough to dampen all flour.
- Pour the batter into a well-greased 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 3-inch bread pan.
- Bake in a moderate oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until the bread is done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. You can also substitute half of the bran with oat bran for extra fiber. If you want to add a twist, try incorporating cinnamon or nutmeg. Ensure the bananas are overripe for optimal sweetness and moisture. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour.
Serving Suggestions
Serve banana bran nut bread warm or at room temperature, spread with a little butter or cream cheese for added richness. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a delightful breakfast or snack, enjoy it alongside fresh fruit or yogurt. This recipe is perfect for breakfast or as a healthy treat any time of day.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover banana bran nut bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice the bread and warm it in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds to enjoy it fresh.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Banana Bran Nut Bread contains roughly 239 calories, with 2g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1672mg per serving (73% 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 bran nut bread! Just thaw them completely and mash before using. The moisture from the thawed bananas may enhance the bread's texture, making it even more delicious.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make banana bran nut bread vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and replace melted shortening with coconut oil or applesauce. This will maintain moisture and binding in the bread.
What other nuts can I use in this recipe?
You can customize the nut mix to your liking! Walnuts, pecans, or almonds are great alternatives. For a crunchier texture, try adding sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as well, making it a versatile recipe for your preferences.
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).