Cranberry Banana Bread Recipe
🕒 Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
🥖 Yield: 1 large loaf
Description:
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Cranberry Banana Bread, a recipe passed down from a generous neighbor. Moist and light, this bread is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight treat or a weekend brunch. With the sweetness of bananas and the tartness of cranberries, every bite is a burst of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 3/4 cups flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/3 cup shortening
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup sugar
Instructions:
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Prepare Pan:
- Grease a large bread pan generously with shortening to prevent sticking.
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Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when your bread is prepared.
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Prepare Cranberries:
- In a saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, 1 1/2 cups of water, and 1 1/2 cups of sugar.
- Slowly bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the cranberries pop open and the mixture thickens.
- Stir occasionally to dissolve the sugar. Be cautious not to overcook.
- Once done, drain the cranberries in a sieve over a bowl. Discard any excess juices or save them for other uses.
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Prepare Bread Batter:
- Mash the ripe bananas using a fork until smooth and creamy.
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Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
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Cream Shortening and Sugar:
- With an electric mixer, cream the shortening until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add 2/3 cup of sugar, beating until the mixture is very light.
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Add Eggs and Bananas:
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition until the mixture is fluffy.
- Incorporate the mashed bananas into the mixture and blend well.
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Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- On low speed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture until well blended.
- Beat until the batter is smooth and all ingredients are fully incorporated.
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Fold in Cranberries and Walnuts:
- Carefully stir in the prepared cranberries and chopped walnuts into the batter. Avoid overmixing; a few gentle folds should be enough.
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Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared bread pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for about 1 hour or until the bread springs back lightly when touched.
- Ensure the bread is thoroughly cooked by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when done.
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Prepare Glaze:
- In a saucepan, combine 1/4 cup of water and 1/4 cup of sugar.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly until it becomes syrupy, for about 2 minutes.
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Glaze the Bread:
- Once the bread is slightly cooled (approximately 10 minutes), pour the prepared glaze over the top while it’s still in the pan.
- Allow the bread to cool completely in the pan before removing it.
Serving:
Slice the Cranberry Banana Bread into thick slices and serve it as a delightful treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Enjoy the moist texture and burst of flavors with each bite. This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household!
