Norm's Banana Nut Bread

Norm's Banana Nut Bread Recipe from the Caribbean

Region / culture: Caribbean | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 8

Introduction

Banana nut bread is a classic and beloved baked treat that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunch of toasted pecans. This recipe for Norm's Banana Nut Bread is sure to become a favorite in your household.

History

Banana nut bread has been a popular recipe in American households for decades. The combination of bananas and nuts in a sweet bread has been a go-to treat for breakfast or as a snack. Norm's Banana Nut Bread recipe is a tried and true version that has been passed down through generations.

Ingredients

1.33 cup all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
0.75 tsp salt
0.25 tsp baking soda
1 cup ripe bananas (Mashed)
0.5 cup whole milk
0.5 cup solid vegetable shortening
1 cup sugar
1 cup toasted and chopped pecans
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Butter and flour a loaf pan measuring 9.25 by 5 by 2.5 inches.
In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.
In another bowl, mix together the mashed bananas, milk, and vanilla extract.
In a large bowl, beat the shortening until creamy.
Gradually beat in the sugar and eggs, one at a time.
After adding each egg, beat well using an electric blender.
Alternate adding the banana mixture and flour mixture into the shortening mixture.
Lastly, add the pecans.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan.
Bake for approximately 1 hour, and test the center with a toothpick before removing from the oven.
Once done, allow it to cool for 5 minutes, then turn it onto a rack to cool completely.
Serve a slice while it's still warm and enjoy!

Variations

Add chocolate chips for a decadent twist on this classic recipe.
Swap out the pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure your bananas are ripe for the best flavor in this recipe.

- Toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter will enhance their nutty flavor.

- Be sure to thoroughly mix the wet and dry ingredients together to ensure a moist and tender bread.

- Use a toothpick to test the center of the bread for doneness before removing it from the oven.

Serving Suggestions

Serve a slice of Norm's Banana Nut Bread with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or snack.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to properly mix the wet and dry ingredients together to ensure a moist and tender bread.

- Use a toothpick to test the center of the bread for doneness before removing it from the oven.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use butter instead of vegetable shortening for a richer flavor.

- Almond milk can be used in place of whole milk for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Norm's Banana Nut Bread can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Slice Norm's Banana Nut Bread and serve on a decorative platter for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair a slice of Norm's Banana Nut Bread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Norm's Banana Nut Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave for a few seconds.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Norm's Banana Nut Bread contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Norm's Banana Nut Bread contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Norm's Banana Nut Bread contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Norm's Banana Nut Bread contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Bananas are a good source of potassium and vitamin C, which are essential for overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts and eggs, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Norm's Banana Nut Bread is a delicious treat that is relatively low in protein and high in carbohydrates and fats. It is a great option for a sweet indulgence.

Summary

Norm's Banana Nut Bread is a classic and delicious treat that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. With the perfect balance of sweetness from ripe bananas and crunch from toasted pecans, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Norm at his quaint little farmhouse on the outskirts of town. Norm was known for his delicious baked goods, and on that particular day, the aroma of freshly baked banana nut bread wafted through the air, enticing my taste buds and stirring up memories of my childhood.

As I entered Norm's cozy kitchen, I could see him bustling about, his sleeves rolled up and flour dusting his hands. He greeted me with a warm smile and a twinkle in his eye, as he pulled a golden loaf of banana nut bread out of the oven.

"Would you like to try a slice, my dear?" Norm asked, his voice filled with pride.

I eagerly accepted, savoring the moist, flavorful bread as it melted in my mouth. It was unlike any banana nut bread I had ever tasted before – rich, sweet, and bursting with the perfect balance of banana and nuts. I knew right then and there that I had to learn the secret to making this delectable treat.

Norm chuckled as he saw the look of delight on my face. "Would you like the recipe, my dear?" he asked, his eyes twinkling mischievously.

I nodded eagerly, and Norm began to recount the story behind his famous banana nut bread. He told me how he had learned the recipe from his own grandmother, who had passed it down to him with love and care. Norm had spent many hours perfecting the recipe, experimenting with different ingredients and techniques until he had created a masterpiece that was truly his own.

As he shared the recipe with me, I listened intently, taking notes and asking questions along the way. Norm patiently guided me through each step, from mashing the ripe bananas to toasting the nuts and mixing in just the right amount of flour and spices. He emphasized the importance of patience and attention to detail, urging me to trust my instincts and let my senses guide me as I baked.

I left Norm's farmhouse that day with a heart full of gratitude and a head full of inspiration. I couldn't wait to try my hand at making his banana nut bread, to recreate the magic of that warm summer day in my own kitchen. And so, armed with Norm's recipe and a newfound sense of confidence, I set to work.

The first time I made Norm's banana nut bread, I followed the recipe to the letter, measuring each ingredient with care and precision. As the bread baked in the oven, the familiar aroma filled my kitchen, transporting me back to that fateful day at Norm's farmhouse. When the timer finally beeped, I pulled the loaf out of the oven and sliced into it, my heart racing with anticipation.

To my delight, the bread turned out perfectly – moist, fragrant, and full of flavor. I couldn't believe that I had made something so delicious with my own two hands. I shared a slice with my family, who oohed and aahed over the rich, buttery texture and the crunchy bits of nuts scattered throughout.

From that day on, Norm's banana nut bread became a staple in my household, a beloved treat that I would bake for special occasions and lazy Sunday mornings alike. I experimented with different variations, adding chocolate chips or a swirl of cinnamon sugar, but nothing could compare to the original recipe that Norm had shared with me.

Years passed, and Norm's banana nut bread became a cherished tradition in my family, a symbol of love and connection that transcended generations. Whenever I baked a loaf, I would think of Norm and his warm smile, grateful for the gift of his friendship and the joy of sharing his recipe with others.

And so, as I sit here now, penning this story for my grandchildren to read, I can't help but smile at the memories that flood back – of warm summer days, fragrant kitchens, and the simple pleasure of baking bread with love. Norm's banana nut bread will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories that endure through time. And for that, I am eternally grateful.