We’ve always loved the comforting aroma of freshly baked banana bread, and our Lion House Banana Bread Recipe brings that classic charm straight from Salt Lake City’s iconic Lion House. This timeless treat boasts moist texture and rich banana flavor that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy morning.
It’s no wonder this recipe has been a favorite for generations drawing on simple ingredients and heartfelt tradition. We’re excited to share our take so you can whip up a batch that feels like home.
Ingredients
In our version of the Lion House Banana Bread Recipe, we select fresh, straightforward ingredients that capture the timeless appeal of this beloved treat. Below, we list them in the order they are typically prepared, with specific prep notes for optimal results.
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed to yield about 1 cup): We use overripe bananas for their natural sweetness and moisture, which form the heart of the bread’s rich flavor.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened at room temperature): This provides a creamy base; we recommend high-quality butter to enhance the comforting aroma.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Added next to balance the bananas’ tartness and create a tender crumb.
- 2 large eggs: Beaten lightly before incorporating, these help bind the mixture and add structure.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: A key flavor enhancer that we stir in for a subtle depth.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Sifted to ensure it’s light and free of lumps, forming the dry foundation.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Leavening agent that we add to promote a perfect rise without altering the taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: For balancing sweetness and highlighting the banana notes.
- 1/2 cup buttermilk: Or substitute with milk mixed with 1 teaspoon lemon juice – we include this for added tang and moisture.
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips: If desired, we fold these in last for texture and a personalized twist.
Equipment Needed
Now that we’ve gathered our fresh ingredients for the Lion House Banana Bread Recipe, we turn our attention to the essential tools that make preparation straightforward and enjoyable. Having the right equipment ensures our baking process is efficient and yields that signature moist, flavorful loaf.
We recommend the following key items to bring this classic recipe to life:
- Mixing bowls (at least two, medium-sized): We use these to separately combine wet and dry ingredients, preventing overmixing and maintaining the bread’s tender texture.
- Measuring cups and spoons (set of 1-cup, ½-cup, and various spoons): Accurate measurements are crucial for our Lion House Banana Bread Recipe, so we rely on these for precise quantities of flour, sugar, and liquids.
- Electric mixer or hand whisk: This tool helps us cream the butter and sugar smoothly, incorporating air for a lighter crumb in our beloved banana bread.
- Loaf pan (9×5-inch, nonstick or greased): Essential for shaping the batter into that perfect, golden-brown loaf that evokes the warmth of Salt Lake City’s Lion House traditions.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: We use this for gently folding in ingredients like bananas or optional add-ins, ensuring even distribution without deflating the batter.
- Oven thermometer (optional but recommended): To guarantee our oven reaches the precise temperature needed, we suggest this for consistent results in every batch.
By preparing these tools ahead of time, we set ourselves up for a seamless baking experience that highlights the rich, comforting flavors of our Lion House Banana Bread Recipe.
Instructions
We walk you through our step-by-step guide for the Lion House Banana Bread Recipe, drawing on fresh ingredients and essential tools from our previous sections to craft a moist, aromatic loaf that’s perfect for any occasion.
Prep the Ingredients
Before we begin, we gather and prepare the ingredients in the order they’ll be used to ensure smooth baking. Start by peeling and mashing 3 ripe bananas in a medium bowl until they form a smooth puree – this step releases their natural sweetness and provides the bread’s signature moisture. Next, soften 1/2 cup of unsalted butter by leaving it at room temperature or microwaving briefly. Measure out 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 cup of buttermilk. If you’re adding optional mix-ins like chopped walnuts or chocolate chips, prepare 1/2 cup of them now to personalize the flavor.
Mix the Batter
We combine the ingredients to create a light, fluffy batter that captures the rich banana essence of our Lion House Banana Bread. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and airy. Add the 2 eggs one at a time, beating well after each to incorporate air and ensure a tender crumb. Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until fully blended, then in a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, and mix on low speed just until combined – overmixing can make the bread tough, so stop as soon as the batter is uniform. Gently fold in any optional walnuts or chocolate chips for added texture and crunch.
Bake the Bread
With the batter mixed, we bake our Lion House Banana Bread to golden perfection, filling the kitchen with its warm, comforting banana aroma. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray, then lightly flour it for easy release. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even rise. Place the pan in the center of the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Rotate the pan halfway through for uniform baking, and enjoy the irresistible scent that signals a perfectly baked loaf.
Cool and Serve
To finish, we cool and serve the bread, allowing its flavors to settle for the ultimate moist texture in our Lion House Banana Bread. Remove the pan from the oven and let the loaf cool inside it for 10 minutes to prevent it from breaking apart. Carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely, which takes about 1 hour – this step locks in the bread’s soft, flavorful interior. Once cooled, slice into thick pieces and serve warm with a pat of butter, savoring the rich banana taste and subtle sweetness that make this a timeless favorite.
Make-Ahead and Storage
To keep our Lion House Banana Bread Recipe fresh and flavorful, we recommend planning ahead for convenience and proper storage to preserve its moist texture and rich banana aroma. Let’s break this down into make-ahead tips and storage guidelines.
Make-Ahead Tips
We love preparing components of the Lion House Banana Bread Recipe in advance to save time on busy mornings. Follow these steps for seamless preparation:
- Mash the bananas early: Mash 3 ripe bananas and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows their natural sweetness to intensify, enhancing the bread’s comforting flavor.
- Mix dry ingredients ahead: Combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a bowl. Seal the mixture in a resealable bag or container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring it’s ready to whisk in when you’re set to bake.
- Prepare the batter in advance: After creaming the butter and sugar, fully mix the batter but do not bake it. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking to ensure even rising and that signature golden crust.
In our experience, these make-ahead strategies maintain the bread’s tender crumb and subtle sweetness without compromising quality.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage helps our Lion House Banana Bread Recipe retain its irresistible moistness and aroma for longer. Here’s how to handle it after baking:
- Room temperature storage: Once cooled completely, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it on the counter. It stays fresh for 2 to 3 days, perfect for enjoying its warm, banana-infused scent with a spread of butter.
- Refrigerator storage: For extended freshness, place the wrapped loaf in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 1 week, helping to lock in the rich flavors while preventing staleness.
- Freezer storage: To savor the bread longer, slice it into portions, wrap each tightly in plastic wrap, and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw slices overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for 1-2 hours to restore that fresh-baked softness.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 2 to 3 days | Wrap tightly to avoid drying out and preserve aroma. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 1 week | Use within a week for optimal texture and flavor. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Freeze in slices for easy thawing and minimal waste. |
Conclusion
We’ve loved bringing this Lion House Banana Bread Recipe to your kitchen, blending tradition with simple joy. It’s more than a treat—it’s a way to create lasting memories with every slice.
Try it for your next gathering, and don’t hesitate to add your twist for a personal favorite. We’re sure it’ll become a staple in your home, offering comfort and flavor that stands the test of time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Lion House Banana Bread Recipe?
The Lion House Banana Bread Recipe is a classic treat from Salt Lake City’s iconic Lion House, known for its comforting aroma and rich banana flavor. It’s a simple, heartfelt recipe using straightforward ingredients, perfect for family gatherings or cozy mornings. This version emphasizes fresh components and optional add-ins like walnuts, making it adaptable while preserving its traditional appeal.
What are the key ingredients in the Lion House Banana Bread Recipe?
The main ingredients include 3 ripe bananas for natural sweetness, 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter for creaminess, 1 cup granulated sugar for balance, eggs, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and buttermilk for texture. Optional additions like walnuts or chocolate chips allow for personalization while keeping the recipe classic and easy.
What equipment is needed to make the Lion House Banana Bread?
You’ll need mixing bowls for combining ingredients, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, an electric mixer or hand whisk for creaming butter and sugar, a loaf pan for baking, and a spatula or wooden spoon for mixing. An optional oven thermometer ensures even baking, making the process efficient and enjoyable.
How do I prepare the Lion House Banana Bread?
Start by mashing 3 ripe bananas and softening the butter. Cream butter and sugar, then add eggs and vanilla. Mix in dry ingredients like flour, baking soda, and salt, followed by buttermilk and bananas—avoid overmixing. Pour into a greased loaf pan and bake at the preheated oven temperature until golden brown. Cool before serving for the best flavor.
Can I make the Lion House Banana Bread ahead of time?
Yes, mash bananas and mix dry ingredients in advance, or prepare the full batter and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This makes baking convenient for busy schedules while maintaining fresh taste. For longer storage, bake first and follow the guidelines below.
How should I store the Lion House Banana Bread?
Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it moist. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months—thaw at room temperature. This ensures the bread retains its rich aroma and texture, making it easy to enjoy over time.