Texas Banana Nut Bread
A moist, flavorful banana nut bread with a tender crumb and crunchy nuts, perfect for breakfast or snack, appealing to banana lovers and quick bread enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening and sugar in a bowl.
- Add beaten egg and mashed bananas; mix well.
- Sift together flour, baking powder, soda, and salt.
- Add dry ingredients to creamed mixture alternately with milk, beating well after each addition.
- Fold in nuts.
- Pour batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using unsalted butter instead of shortening. If you're out of nuts, try adding chocolate chips or dried fruit for a different flavor. Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best sweetness and moisture. If desired, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and depth, which pairs beautifully with Banana Delight Cake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of the banana nut bread warm or at room temperature. It pairs well with a smear of butter or cream cheese, and a cup of coffee or tea makes for a delightful breakfast or snack. Consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast, or enjoy it with a scoop of ice cream for a dessert twist.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the banana nut bread to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to three months. To reheat, simply slice and warm in a toaster or oven until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Texas Banana Nut Bread contains roughly 424 calories, with 5g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is a good source of calcium (17% of the Daily Value), iron (13% of the Daily Value), and protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1385mg per serving (60% 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. If you prefer a lighter loaf, consider using a combination of both flours or adding a bit more liquid to the recipe.
How can I tell when the banana bread is done baking?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, the bread is done. If it has wet batter on it, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes and check again.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the banana nut bread a day ahead and store it wrapped at room temperature. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. For longer storage, consider freezing it and thawing it when needed.
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).