Delicious Banana Bread
A moist and flavorful banana bread with a tender crumb, perfect for breakfast or snack time. The rich banana flavor complemented by vanilla and a hint of salt makes it a comforting treat suitable for all ages. Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this an easy homemade favorite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the shortening, sugar, eggs, sour milk, and vanilla in a mixing bowl and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the mashed bananas.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of shortening. If you don't have sour milk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes. Ensure your bananas are very ripe for the best sweetness. Mixing the batter just until combined helps keep the bread tender and moist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of banana bread warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a spread of butter or cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with Cherry Salad (Ambrosia) for a delightful brunch. Enjoy it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
Storage & Reheating
Once the banana bread has cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, slice and warm in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Delicious Banana Bread contains roughly 662 calories, with 3g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% of the Daily Value) and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 569mg per serving (25% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. However, the texture may be denser. It’s recommended to use a mix of both flours for the best results, maintaining lightness while adding nutrition.
How can I tell when my banana bread is done baking?
To check if your banana bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it's ready. If there’s wet batter on the toothpick, continue baking for a few more minutes.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch, and chocolate chips can make the bread extra indulgent. Fold in about 1/2 to 1 cup of your choice after mixing in the bananas for added flavor and texture.
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).