Isy'S Old Fashioned Banana Bread
A moist and flavorful banana bread with a tender crumb, perfect for breakfast or snacks, featuring ripe bananas, nuts, and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Mix shortening and sugar together until well combined.
- Add eggs and crushed bananas; mix thoroughly.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in chopped nuts.
- Pour batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour, until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter. To add a twist, consider incorporating chocolate chips or dried fruits. Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep the bread tender. Adjust baking time if using a different size loaf pan.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of banana bread warm or at room temperature, topped with a smear of butter or cream cheese for extra richness. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a delightful breakfast or snack. For a special treat, try it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store leftover banana bread 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 the bread and warm in a toaster or oven until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Isy'S Old Fashioned Banana Bread contains roughly 1184 calories, with 12g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 76g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 917mg per serving (40% 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, but the texture may be denser. It's best to use a mix of both for a lighter result. If you prefer a healthier option, browse more vegetarian recipes that incorporate whole grains.
How can I make this banana bread gluten-free?
To make gluten-free banana bread, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for blends that contain xanthan gum for better structure. Keep in mind that baking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness with a toothpick.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the banana bread?
Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth, or a splash of vanilla extract for depth. Chopped nuts, as mentioned in the recipe, add crunch and flavor. For a decadent touch, try folding in some chocolate chips, which pairs beautifully with the banana flavor.
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).