Banana Raisin Nut Loaf
A moist, flavorful banana raisin nut loaf packed with ripe bananas, sweet raisins, and crunchy walnuts, perfect for breakfast or teatime enjoyment.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.
- Add 1/2 cup mashed bananas, shortening, and eggs to the dry ingredients.
- Beat the mixture for 2 minutes until smooth.
- Stir in the remaining bananas and vanilla extract.
- Beat for 1 minute, then fold in raisins and walnuts.
- Pour the batter into an 8-inch loaf pan.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the middle comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using overripe bananas, as they provide a sweeter taste. You can substitute the shortening with unsalted butter or coconut oil for a different texture. For added moisture, try incorporating a tablespoon of yogurt. If you're looking for a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts and replace them with extra raisins or sunflower seeds.
Serving Suggestions
This loaf is perfect for breakfast or as a snack, and it pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a delightful twist, spread a little butter or cream cheese on top. You can serve it alongside fresh fruit for a balanced meal or enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. Browse more American recipes for inspiration!
Storage & Reheating
Store the Banana Raisin Nut Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it well in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Banana Raisin Nut Loaf contains roughly 283 calories, with 5g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1246mg per serving (54% 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 other fruits instead of bananas?
While bananas are the star of this loaf, you can experiment with other fruits like applesauce or pureed pumpkin for a different flavor. Just remember to adjust the sugar and moisture content accordingly to keep the loaf from becoming too dense.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version of the Banana Raisin Nut Loaf, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your baking powder is also gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly but should still yield a delicious result.
Can I add chocolate chips to the recipe?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can elevate the loaf's flavor. Just fold in about 1/2 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips along with the raisins and walnuts for a delightful twist that everyone will enjoy.
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).