Star Spangled Banana Bread
Star Spangled Banana Bread combines the warm flavors of bananas, orange peel, and spices in a hearty, moist loaf perfect for breakfast or teatime enjoyment.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large mixer bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, yeast, sugar, salt, ginger, and orange peel; mix well.
- In a saucepan, heat milk, water, and butter until warm (120 to 130°F); butter does not need to melt.
- Add the warm liquids to the flour mixture; then add the egg and bananas.
- Blend at low speed until moistened; beat 3 minutes at medium speed.
- Gradually stir in the remaining flour to make a firm dough.
- Knead on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning to grease the top.
- Cover and let rise in a warm place until light and doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using bread flour instead of all-purpose flour. If you don't have instant dry yeast, active dry yeast can be used, just activate it first in warm water. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile. You can also fold in nuts or chocolate chips for added texture, similar to what you might find in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the banana bread warm, sliced, and spread with a pat of butter or a drizzle of Honey Egg White Frosting for a sweet touch. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea and can be enjoyed as a breakfast item or an afternoon snack. Consider serving it alongside a fruit salad for a refreshing complement.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the banana bread to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread in an airtight container, then reheat in the oven for a warm treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Star Spangled Banana Bread contains roughly 1118 calories, with 21g protein, 168g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 part or all of the all-purpose flour, but this may result in a denser bread. If using entirely whole wheat flour, consider adding a bit more liquid to the dough to maintain moisture.
How do I know when the banana bread is done baking?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready. If there is wet batter on the toothpick, continue baking for a few more minutes and check again.
Can I add other fruits to the banana bread?
Absolutely! You can mix in chopped apples, blueberries, or even dried fruits like cranberries for a twist. Just make sure to adjust the liquid ingredients slightly if you're adding fruits that contain more moisture.
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).