Classic Banana Bread: A Timeless Recipe from Pillsbury
Cook Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Description: This delightful banana bread recipe, sourced from the Pillsbury Complete Cookbook (2000), is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family brunch or a quick snack to satisfy your sweet tooth. While I haven’t personally tested this version, it comes highly recommended and has been well-received by those who have.
Recipe Category: Quick Breads
Keywords: Breads, Tropical Fruits, Fruit, Kid Friendly, Brunch, Oven, Beginner Cook, Easy
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Margarine | 1/2 cup |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Eggs | 1 large |
| Ripe Bananas | 1 1/3 cups (mashed) |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 cups |
| Baking Soda | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2646.1 |
| Total Fat | 106.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 21.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 434.4 mg |
| Sodium | 3671.7 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 381.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.7 g |
| Sugars | 170.2 g |
| Protein | 43.7 g |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking pan by greasing the bottom only of a 9 x 5-inch or an 8 x 4-inch loaf pan to ensure easy release after baking.
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Mix Sugar and Margarine: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar and margarine. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy, creating a wonderful base for your banana bread.
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Incorporate Eggs and Bananas: Once your mixture is fluffy, add in the large egg and beat well until fully incorporated. Next, mash the ripe bananas and add them to the bowl along with the milk and vanilla extract. Blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. If you choose to add nuts, now is the time to mix them in as well. Stir the dry ingredients together until they are evenly distributed.
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Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring gently until the dry ingredients are just moistened. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of your bread.
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Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a tester or toothpick into the center of the loaf; it should come out clean when the bread is ready.
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Cool and Store: Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Carefully remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. For best results, wrap the banana bread in plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator, where it can stay fresh for several days.
This classic banana bread recipe is not only simple but also brings the warmth of homemade baking to your kitchen. With its rich flavor and moist texture, it’s sure to become a favorite among family and friends, making it an excellent addition to your baking repertoire. Enjoy it plain, or dress it up with a drizzle of honey or a smear of butter for a delightful treat. Happy baking!
