My Sister'S Favorite Banana Bread
A moist, flavorful banana bread with nuts, perfect for breakfast or snack, appealing to banana lovers and those craving homemade baked treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine 1 cup flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
- Add mashed bananas, shortening, and milk; beat until well blended.
- Add eggs and remaining flour; beat until blended.
- Stir in chopped nuts.
- Pour batter into a greased 8 x 4 x 2-inch loaf pan.
- Bake in a 350° F oven for 55 to 60 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using browned butter instead of shortening. If you're out of shortening, unsalted butter is a great substitute. Ensure your bananas are very ripe for the best sweetness. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. If you want to make this banana bread gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Serving Suggestions
This banana bread is delicious on its own but can be served warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or a snack. For a delightful twist, enjoy it with a scoop of ice cream or alongside a slice of Fresh Apple Dessert for a sweet dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftover banana bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply slice and warm in the microwave for a few seconds or toast slices for a crispy exterior.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My Sister'S Favorite Banana Bread contains roughly 165 calories, with 3g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1239mg per serving (54% 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 substitute the eggs in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. For each egg, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens. Alternatively, use 1/4 cup of applesauce per egg for moisture and binding.
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. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it's ready. If it has wet batter on it, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking frequently.
Can I add other ingredients to the banana bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor. Just be sure not to exceed the total volume of the batter to maintain the right 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).