My banana bread

Everyone needs a go-to banana bread recipe and I happen to be in love with mine, so I would love to share it with you. It has taken many failed attempts to prefect this recipe, but the final product is a tasty explosion of comforting flavors in your mouth. My sister finds the thickness of the bread to be similar to a cake consistency, however I love the moistness in each bite.

Three very important elements to keep in mind:

1. Make sure your bananas are over-ripe. Not to the point of being dark brown, but definitely more ripe than you would be comfortable eating. This ensures a rich banana flavor.

2. Each oven heats differently, so make sure you have cooked previously in the oven you are using to ensure an accurate 350 degree temperature.

3. Bake time is a crucial factor whenever you are baking, especially breads. You want a moist, warm outcome. There is nothing worse than bread that smells and looks delicious, but comes out dry and crunchy (at least not banana bread).


Secret ingredient: pumpkin puree & whole wheat flour. Both make the recipe unique, a little healthier and oh so delicious!

I have prepared this recipe three ways. In a traditional loaf pan (the easiest and most delicious), in two mini loaf pans, and finally, in a muffin tin. Each require different cooking time, which is important to note.

Traditional Loaf Pan: Bake at 350 for 50-60 minutes (check at the 45 minute mark).
Mini Loaf Pans: Bake at 350 for 40-50 minutes (check at the 40 minute mark).
Muffin Tin (a dozen regular sized muffins): Use paper cups (cup-cake papers) to line each individual cup. Fill 2/3 way full with batter. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes, check with tooth pick or knife and continue cooking if not done.


Ashley's Banana Bread:

Mix in large bowl: 1/2 cup melted margarine (one stick)
1 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla
2 eggs
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Mix in separate bowl: 1 cup white flour
1/2 cup wheat flour
pinch of salt
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 tablespoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon all-spice
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Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, beating or whisking parts at a time.
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Finally, mix in: 3 large ripe bananas (mush with your hands as you add to the bowl)
1/8 cup french vanilla yogurt
1/8 cup pumpkin puree
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Optional add-in's: chocolate chips or walnuts


Banana bread is a wonderful treat to deliver to a neighbor, bring as a thank you to a co-worker or friend, or simply prepare for yourself for your own enjoyment. I find myself craving banana bread and this satisfies all my desires. You can easily slice the bread and place each slice in individual baggies for freezing or carrying out the door for breakfast!

ENJOY!! :)