We love nothing more than transforming simple ingredients into irresistible treats and our Crisco Banana Bread Recipe is a perfect example. It’s a timeless favorite that turns overripe bananas into a moist fluffy loaf with the help of Crisco shortening for that unbeatable texture.
Originating from resourceful home baking traditions this recipe brings comfort to your kitchen. We’ll guide you through easy steps to create a loaf that’s not only delicious but also a hit at family gatherings.
Ingredients
In our Crisco Banana Bread Recipe, we start with high-quality ingredients that ensure a moist, fluffy loaf every time. We’ve organized this list in the order they are typically used, from wet to dry components, with specific measurements and prep notes for precision.
- 1/2 cup Crisco shortening: Use this for its optimal texture-enhancing properties—melt it slightly if needed for easier mixing.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: This sweetens the batter; measure it leveled for accuracy.
- 2 large eggs: Fresh eggs at room temperature help bind the ingredients and add richness.
- 3 medium ripe bananas (about 1 cup mashed): Mash them thoroughly with a fork until smooth for that signature banana flavor and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic depth—stir it in just before combining dry ingredients.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Sift this to avoid lumps and ensure even distribution.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: This leavening agent creates lift—make sure it’s fresh for the best rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances overall flavor; use fine sea salt for even blending.
- Optional add-ins: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips: Fold these in at the end for extra texture and taste, if desired.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 slice) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Tools and Equipment
To bring our Crisco Banana Bread Recipe together seamlessly, we rely on a few key tools and equipment that make the baking process efficient and enjoyable. After preparing our ingredients like Crisco shortening and ripe bananas, gathering these essentials ensures accuracy and optimal results in creating a moist, fluffy loaf.
Essential Tools List
We recommend the following items, organized by their role in the recipe for easy reference:
- Mixing Bowls (2-3 sizes): Large and medium bowls are crucial for combining wet ingredients like mashed bananas and eggs with dry ones such as flour and baking soda. Opt for sturdy, non-slip bowls to prevent spills during vigorous mixing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons (Set of 1-cup, ½-cup, and various spoons): Precision is key in baking, so use these to measure ingredients accurately—such as 1 cup of granulated sugar or 1 teaspoon of baking soda—to achieve the perfect texture in our Crisco Banana Bread.
- Electric Mixer or Hand Whisk: A stand mixer or handheld electric mixer speeds up creaming the Crisco shortening with sugar, but a sturdy whisk works well for a hands-on approach, ensuring a smooth batter without lumps.
- Mashing Tool (Fork or Potato Masher): This simple tool mashes the 3 medium ripe bananas into a smooth puree, which is vital for incorporating moisture and natural sweetness into the bread.
- Loaf Pan (9×5-inch): A standard metal or glass loaf pan is essential for shaping the batter into that classic banana bread form; grease it lightly with Crisco for easy release and a golden crust.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Use a heat-resistant silicone spatula to scrape down bowl sides and fold in optional add-ins like walnuts, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
- Oven and Oven Thermometer: A reliable oven preheated to 350°F is necessary for even baking; an oven thermometer helps verify temperature accuracy, preventing undercooked or burnt loaves.
- Cooling Rack: After baking, transfer the bread to this rack to cool evenly, which locks in the fresh, comforting aroma and prevents sogginess.
By using these tools, we ensure our Crisco Banana Bread Recipe turns out perfectly every time, blending tradition with modern convenience for a delightful home-baked treat.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our ingredients and tools, let’s guide you through the straightforward steps to bake our irresistible Crisco Banana Bread. We promise a loaf that’s moist, fluffy, and bursting with banana flavor, using Crisco shortening for that perfect tender crumb.
Prep
First, we preheat our oven to 350°F to ensure even baking. While the oven heats, we mash 3 medium ripe bananas in a mixing bowl using a mashing tool until they reach a smooth, creamy consistency that adds natural sweetness and moisture to our bread. Next, we grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with a light layer of Crisco shortening or butter, then line it with parchment paper for easy removal and to prevent sticking, setting the stage for a perfectly shaped loaf.
Mix
We start by creaming 1/2 cup of Crisco shortening with 1 cup of granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes and incorporates air for a tender texture. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each to create a smooth batter, then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and the mashed bananas for a fragrant, tropical aroma. In a separate bowl, we whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until evenly combined. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, stirring just until incorporated to avoid overmixing and ensure a light, airy crumb—if desired, gently fold in optional add-ins like 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts for extra crunch.
Bake
We pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to create a uniform shape. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, allowing the bread to develop a golden-brown crust and release its warm, inviting banana scent throughout your kitchen. To monitor accuracy, we recommend using an oven thermometer to maintain the exact 350°F temperature, ensuring our bread bakes to perfection every time.
Cool
Once baked, we remove the loaf pan from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes to allow the bread to set and make slicing easier. Carefully transfer the loaf from the pan to the rack to cool completely for about 1 hour, preventing sogginess and helping the flavors meld for a slice that’s delightfully moist and flavorful when served.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the joys of our Crisco Banana Bread recipe is its flexibility for busy schedules. We can prepare components in advance to save time while preserving that signature moist texture and rich banana flavor. Below, we outline practical steps for making ahead, ensuring your loaf remains fresh and delicious when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Preparing the Batter Ahead
To streamline your baking process, we recommend preparing the batter up to 24 hours in advance. This allows the flavors—like the subtle richness from Crisco shortening—to meld beautifully.
- Step 1: Follow the wet ingredient steps from our baking instructions, creaming the Crisco shortening with sugar, then incorporating eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, and salt) as directed, but do not combine them with the wet mixture yet.
- Step 3: Cover the wet mixture tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Store the dry ingredients in a sealed bag or bowl at room temperature.
- Step 4: When ready to bake, gently fold the dry ingredients into the chilled wet mixture, add any optional mix-ins like walnuts or chocolate chips, and proceed with pouring the batter into your greased loaf pan.
Baking and Storing the Loaf Ahead
If you prefer to bake the entire loaf in advance, we suggest cooling it completely before storage to maintain its fluffy crumb and prevent sogginess.
- Step 1: Bake the bread as per our instructions until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Step 2: Allow the loaf to cool fully on a wire rack for at least 1 hour to enhance flavor development.
- Step 3: Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container for optimal preservation.
For storage durations, refer to the table below to ensure safety and quality:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 5 days | Keep wrapped to retain moisture; reheat slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds for a warm, fresh taste. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Label with the date; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve the tender texture from Crisco shortening. |
Thawing and Reheating Tips
To enjoy your make-ahead Crisco Banana Bread at its best, we advise thawing and reheating with care. Thaw a frozen loaf in the refrigerator for 8-12 hours, then warm individual slices in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes. This method revives the loaf’s aroma and ensures every bite is as comforting as the day it was baked.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Crisco Banana Bread recipe and how it brings simple ingredients to life in your kitchen. It’s more than just a loaf—it’s our go-to for creating warm memories with family and friends.
Try baking it yourself and see how easy it is to add your own twists. We’re confident it’ll become a staple in your home baking adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Crisco Banana Bread?
The key ingredients include 1/2 cup Crisco shortening, 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, 3 medium ripe bananas, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Optional add-ins like walnuts or chocolate chips can enhance flavor and texture. Prep notes: Use overripe bananas for best results.
How do I make Crisco Banana Bread?
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a loaf pan. Mash 3 bananas until smooth. Cream 1/2 cup Crisco shortening with 1 cup sugar, then add 2 eggs, vanilla, and bananas. Mix dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, salt) separately and fold into the wet mixture. Pour batter into the pan and bake for 50-60 minutes until golden. Cool on a rack.
What tools are required for this recipe?
You’ll need mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, an electric mixer or hand whisk, a banana masher, a loaf pan, a spatula or wooden spoon, an oven with thermometer, and a cooling rack. These tools ensure even mixing, proper baking, and easy removal for a perfect loaf.
Can I make Crisco Banana Bread ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Bake when ready, and for longer storage, cool the loaf completely, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven for fresh flavor.
What is the nutritional information per serving?
Each slice provides about 250 calories, 12g total fat, 35g carbohydrates, 4g protein, and 2g fiber. This makes it a moderately indulgent treat; adjust portions for dietary needs, and note that add-ins like nuts may alter these values slightly.
Why use Crisco shortening in this banana bread recipe?
Crisco shortening creates a moist, fluffy texture by blending well with sugars and providing even fat distribution. It’s a traditional choice in home baking that enhances the bread’s comforting flavor without overpowering the bananas, resulting in a reliable, tender loaf.