Banana Bread - Simple & Delicious

Quick breads are a great way to use fruit that has become overripe or in danger of slipping into the "not-so-fresh" zone.  I had some bananas sitting around on the brink of going really bad.  I wanted to prolong the life of the little beauties and banana bread quickly came to mind. Below is my recipe for a simple, quick banana bread your whole family will love.

Quick breads are fun to make because they are very versatile--lending themselves to virtually any type of ingredients--fruits, nuts, etc.  You can whip them up quickly as they don't require any kneading or rising time.  They keep really well, are perfect with any meal or as a snack and they make excellent, heart-felt gifts during the holidays.

Easy Banana Bread

Seasoned & Stirred by LBTurner

1/2 cup white sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 cup mashed bananas (2-3 large, very ripe bananas)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2-2/3 cups all purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon salt

8 ounces vanilla yogurt
1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.  In medium bowl, beat together the sugars, oil and eggs.  Add the bananas and vanilla and blend thoroughly.

2. In a separate bowl, add the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice and salt.  Mix thoroughly and then SIFT the dry mixture into the banana mixture, blending thoroughly. Stir in the yogurt and walnuts.

3. Pour batter into a greased and floured 9 x 5 inch loaf pan and bake for about 1 hour.  Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean, the loaf is done.  Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes.  Remove the bread from the pan and allow it to continue cool on a rack.

This recipe yields approx. 10-12 slices. Store unused bread in the refrigerator or in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to four days.

Did you know...bananas are a high energy fruit favored by athletes because of their high potassium content.  Bananas are very low in saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium and are a very good source of vitamin B-6, vitamin C, dietary fiber and manganese.  Also, bananas help strengthen eyesight, helps the body absorb calcium--thus, helping to build stronger bones.  Their antacids help protect against stomach ulcers and they are great for people who have elimination issues!