Neens Banana Nut Bread(Makes 2 Large Loaves)
This banana nut bread offers moist, flavorful slices packed with ripe banana and crunchy walnuts. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack, it appeals to those who love hearty baked goods with a hint of sweetness and nutty texture, making it a family favorite or a delightful treat for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas.
- Add eggs, butter flavor shortening, sugar, chopped walnuts, flour, baking soda, salt, and cream of tartar one at a time.
- Mix well after adding each ingredient.
- Spoon the batter into 2 large greased loaf pans.
- Bake for 60 minutes at 300°F.
- Remove from pans and let cool slightly.
- Store in Ziploc bags until the outer crust is moist.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using overripe bananas as they add more sweetness and moisture. If you don't have butter flavor shortening, you can substitute with unsalted butter for a more traditional taste. Adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract can enhance the flavor profile. Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep the bread tender and fluffy.
Serving Suggestions
This banana nut bread is delightful served warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect breakfast or snack. You can also serve it alongside a fruit salad for a refreshing side. For a creative twist, try serving slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Once the banana nut bread has cooled, wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in Ziploc bags to keep them moist. They can be stored at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the wrapped loaves and thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Neens Banana Nut Bread(Makes 2 Large Loaves) contains roughly 508 calories, with 11g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 476mg per serving (21% 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 banana bread! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing. The extra moisture from the thawed bananas can actually enhance the bread's texture.
What can I substitute for walnuts?
If you're allergic to walnuts or prefer a different nut, you can use pecans or almonds instead. For a nut-free version, consider adding chocolate chips or dried fruit to maintain texture and flavor.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
To check if your banana nut bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it's ready. Keep in mind that baking times may vary based on your oven.
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).