Going Apes for Banana Bread

Do you ever have bananas that have been forgotten after sitting on the counter for one too many days?  At my house they go into the freezer.  They are then added to smoothies for the kids- or for an extra special treat, I make banana bread.

banana bread recipe | Life of Momma BSince today is National Banana Bread Day, I thought I would share my recipe.

BANANA BREAD
1   3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1    1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup shortening
2 eggs
1 Tablespoon vanilla
1 Tablespoon milk
1 cup mashed ripe bananas

 
In a medium bowl stir together first four ingredients. Set aside.

Using an electric mixer, cream together sugar and shortening. Add eggs, vanilla and milk.  Next add half of the flour mixture and half of the bananas. When it is well incorporated, scrape the bowl and add the remaining flour and bananas.

Pour into a greased 8×4 loaf pan.  Bake at 350 for about one hour.  Or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the edges have begun to pull away from the sides.  Allow to cool at least 4 hours before slicing.

TIPS: Allowing the bread to rest helps to develop the flavors and is worth the wait.  If you are using the frozen bananas, like I usually do, be sure to allow them to thaw before you begin.