Fresh Banana-Lemon Tea Bread
A moist, flavorful tea bread blending ripe bananas and fresh lemon for a zesty, sweet treat perfect for breakfast, snack, or brunch gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, cream shortening with sugar.
- Beat in eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Blend in mashed bananas and lemon juice.
- Sift together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the banana mixture.
- Stir in grated fresh lemon peel.
- Turn the batter into a greased 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 1 hour, or until a bread tester inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from pan and dust with confectioners' sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. You can also use whole wheat flour for added nutrition. Ensure your bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor. If you want a twist, try adding chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the batter. This bread is versatile and pairs well with a cup of tea or coffee.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm or at room temperature, dusted with confectioners' sugar for a touch of sweetness. This bread pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it an ideal breakfast or afternoon snack. You could also enjoy it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a dollop of yogurt for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover banana-lemon tea bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, simply slice and microwave for 10-15 seconds, or warm in a toaster oven until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fresh Banana-Lemon Tea Bread contains roughly 470 calories, with 1g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1379mg per serving (60% 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 in this recipe! Just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before mashing. This can enhance the moisture of your bread, making it even more delicious.
What can I substitute for shortening?
You can replace shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. Both will add a different flavor and texture to the bread, so choose based on your preference.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this banana-lemon tea bread gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your baking soda and any other ingredients are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the recipe.
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).