Banana Spice Loaf
A moist and flavorful banana spice loaf featuring warm cinnamon and nutmeg, perfect for breakfast or snacks, appealing to banana lovers and spice enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease with spray a 9 1/4 x 5 1/4 x 2 3/4-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine sifted all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Melt margarine in a small saucepan.
- Pour melted margarine into the bowl and whisk together with mashed bananas, buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the flour mixture and stir until just moistened.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Place the pan on a wire rack and cool for 10 minutes.
- Remove the loaf from the pan and let it cool completely before slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. You can substitute the margarine with coconut oil for a dairy-free option. If you don't have buttermilk, mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar and let it sit for a few minutes. Ensure not to overmix the batter; it should be just moistened for a tender loaf. This Banana Spice Loaf pairs beautifully with a warm cup of tea.
Serving Suggestions
This moist Banana Spice Loaf is delightful served warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese. It also makes a great breakfast option alongside fresh fruit or yogurt. For a special treat, serve slices with Janet's Apple Dip for a delicious contrast of flavors. Enjoy it as a snack or dessert paired with your favorite coffee or tea.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Banana Spice Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, simply slice a piece and microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast it for a warm, fresh taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Banana Spice Loaf contains roughly 373 calories, with 6g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value), and iron (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 this Banana Spice Loaf. Just thaw them completely and mash them before adding to the batter. This can enhance the flavor and moisture of the loaf.
What can I add to the batter for more texture?
You can add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. Dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries also make great additions, giving the loaf extra flavor and texture.
How do I know when the loaf is done baking?
The loaf is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking to ensure even cooking.
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).