Aunt Mary’s Banana Bread

There’s something wonderfully comforting about baking a loaf of banana bread, especially when it’s a cherished family recipe like Aunt Mary’s Banana Bread. This delightful treat has been a staple at our family gatherings, always bringing a sense of warmth and nostalgia with every bite. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this banana bread is bound to become a favorite in your home too.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Aunt Mary’s Banana Bread is a classic recipe that has stood the test of time for good reason. It’s incredibly moist, perfectly sweet, and has just the right amount of banana flavor. The addition of nuts adds a delightful crunch, making each slice a little piece of heaven. Plus, it’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sifter
• 9x5x3″ loaf pan or muffin pans
• Spatula
• Oven

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter or margarine
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 3 bananas, mashed (1 cup)
• 2 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup nuts, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the beaten eggs and mashed bananas to the creamed mixture, mixing well.
4. Sift the flour, baking soda, and salt together. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in the chopped nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Pour the batter into a greased 9x5x3″ loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If making muffins, bake for 20-25 minutes.
8. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Success

• Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
• Don’t overmix the batter; this can lead to a dense, tough bread.
• To prevent sticking, ensure your loaf pan is well-greased or lined with parchment paper.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For a twist, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter.
• Swap out the nuts for chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter treat.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Each serving of Aunt Mary’s Banana Bread is a deliciously satisfying treat. While specific nutritional values can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes, this recipe offers a good balance of carbohydrates and fats, with a delightful hint of protein from the nuts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen bananas? Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

How should I store the banana bread? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Can I freeze banana bread? Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

Aunt Mary’s Banana Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a slice of family tradition that I’m excited to share with you. I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it does to ours. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your results and any creative twists you might come up with. Happy baking!