Kauai Banana Bread
A moist and flavorful banana bread with ripe bananas, vanilla, and a tender crumb, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or casual gatherings with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream sugar and shortening together until smooth.
- Add mashed bananas, vanilla, and well-beaten eggs; mix well.
- Sift all dry ingredients separately: flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing lightly to combine; do not overmix.
- Pour the batter evenly into two greased 1-pound loaf pans.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Kauai Banana Bread, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter. If you're out of shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter for a richer taste. Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best sweetness and moisture. Avoid overmixing the batter to keep your bread light and fluffy.
Serving Suggestions
Kauai Banana Bread makes a delightful breakfast or snack, especially when served warm with a pat of butter. Pair it with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a comforting treat. It also goes well with fresh fruit or yogurt. Try serving it alongside Hazel Shafer's Fruit Cobbler for a delicious dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover banana 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, slice the bread and warm it in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds to enjoy it fresh and moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kauai Banana Bread contains roughly 807 calories, with 7g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (25% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 946mg per serving (41% 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 great in this recipe! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing. The extra moisture from thawed bananas can enhance the texture of your banana bread.
How can I tell when the banana bread is done baking?
To check if your banana bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it's ready. If it has wet batter on it, continue baking for a few more minutes and check again.
Is it okay to add spices to the banana bread?
Absolutely! Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor of your Kauai Banana Bread. Start with 1 teaspoon of your chosen spice and adjust to taste. This adds a warm, aromatic touch that complements the bananas beautifully.
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).