Banana Bread

~As my little ones are getting older, I try to involve them in the kitchen as much as possible. Not only are they at an age where they are eager to learn (and still willing and excited to listen to mommy), but I feel it is also very important that kids grow up learning basic survival skills. Banana bread is one of those foods that involves lots of mashing; i.e. perfect for young kids. It’s also extremely forgiving, which helps to encourage their interest.

Special Equipment:

9x5x3 loaf pan

parchment paper

electric mixer

large mixing bowl

Ingredients:

1 cup granulated sugar

1 stick unsalted sweet butter- softened

2 large eggs

4 large ripe bananas

1 tbsp whipping cream

1 tsp ground cinnamon

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Cut 2 lengths of parchment paper; one to go across and the other down. Make sure to cut it long enough, so the paper drapes over side of pan.
2. In a small bowl, mash bananas thoroughly. Mix in the cream and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. In separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Using a spoon or fork, gently but thoroughly mix together.
4. Using electric mixer, cream the sugar and butter in mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Add half of the banana mixture to the creamed mixture and stir until combined. Set aside.
6. Add dry ingredients into batter, mixing just until flour disappears.
7. Pour the batter into prepared pan. Pour remaining portion of banana mixture on top and use a knife or spoon to lightly swirl into batter.
8. Pour remaining portion of banana mixture on top and use a knife of spoon to lightly swirl into batter. As it bakes, the banana chunks will slowly sink into the batter and it will yield a banana bread with small chunks of bananas.
9. Bake for 50min – 65min. At the 50min mark, insert a toothpick in the center. If it does not come out clean, let it bake and check back in 5min. When it comes out clean, it’s ready.
10. Set aside to cool for 15-20min.
11. Using parchment paper, lift bread out. Set aside to cool completely before serving.