Banana bread recipes are everywhere, but when one has been passed down for generations, you know it’s something special. This version, inspired by a great-grandmother’s kitchen, is rich with banana flavor, wonderfully moist, and irresistibly tender. The sour cream adds just the right touch of tang and softness, while the nuts bring a lovely crunch. And the best part? Baking it in a Bundt pan makes it look as impressive as it tastes—perfect for serving guests or enjoying with a cup of coffee at home.
Ingredients for Generations-Perfected Banana Bread
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1 cup (8 oz / 225 g) sugar
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1/2 cup (4 oz / 115 g) shortening
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2 large eggs (about 4 oz / 115 g total)
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3 Tbsp (1.5 fl oz / 45 ml) sour cream
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2 cups (10 oz / 285 g) all-purpose flour
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1 tsp (5 g) baking soda
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1/2 tsp (3 g) salt
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3 large ripe bananas, mashed (about 1.5 cups / 340 g)
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1/2 cup (2 oz / 60 g) chopped pecans or walnuts
How to Make Generations-Perfected Banana Bread
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Sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt, then set aside.
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In a large mixing bowl, cream the sugar, shortening, and eggs until smooth.
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Add the flour mixture and sour cream alternately to the creamed mixture, mixing until just combined.
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Stir in the mashed bananas and nuts until evenly incorporated.
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Pour the batter into greased loaf pans or a Bundt pan (10 inches / 25 centimeters) sprayed with non-stick spray.
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Bake in a preheated 325°F (165°C) oven for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
A Slice of Family Tradition
There’s something comforting about a recipe that has stood the test of time. This banana bread is more than just a baked good—it’s a warm connection to family kitchens of the past. Whether you serve it fresh from the oven, toasted with butter, or even as a base for a decadent dessert, it’s sure to bring smiles all around. And who knows—maybe it will become your family’s “only banana bread recipe” too.
