Ernie'S Banana Bread
Moist and flavorful banana bread with a hint of nuttiness, perfect for breakfast or snack, appealing to banana lovers and those craving comforting baked treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two loaf pans.
- Cream shortening and sugar together until well combined.
- Add eggs and beat well.
- Stir in mashed bananas.
- Add flour, baking soda, and ground nuts (if using), mixing until just combined.
- Pour batter into prepared loaf pans.
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use very ripe bananas for maximum flavor and sweetness. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute it with unsalted butter or coconut oil in equal amounts. Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the ground nuts or replace them with chocolate chips for a delightful twist.
Serving Suggestions
This banana bread is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a smear of butter or cream cheese for added richness. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For a fun twist, try topping a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or serve it alongside a fresh salad like Chestnut Pea Salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the banana bread to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze slices in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ernie'S Banana Bread contains roughly 643 calories, with 6g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value) and potassium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 652mg per serving (28% 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! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing. They are often sweeter and easier to mash, making them perfect for banana bread.
How can I tell when the banana bread is done?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached. If it comes out wet, continue baking for a few more minutes, checking frequently to avoid overbaking.
Can I add other ingredients like chocolate chips or dried fruit?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding chocolate chips, dried fruit, or spices. Just keep in mind that adding too many mix-ins might affect the baking time, so adjust accordingly.
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).