Banana Bread

from Savoring Time in the Kitchen

Adapted from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Noteworthy-Collection-Recipes-Ravinia-Festival/dp/1556525338">Noteworthy</a>, 1986

Yields 1 large loaf, 2 small loaves or 4-5 mini loaves

¼ pound plus 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

1-1/3 cups sugar

4 eggs, beaten

4 cups sifted flour

4 teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

3 cups mashed bananas (about 7)

1 cup chopped walnuts

2 tablespoons poppy seeds  (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly butter loaf pans or spray with nonstick cooking spray. 

In large bowl, cream butter and sugar.  Add eggs and mix well.  Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.  Add alternately with bananas to egg mixture.  Fold in nuts and poppy seeds, if using.  Pour into prepared loaf pans and bake in 350 degree oven for 60-70 minutes, depending on the size of the pans you are using.  Cool in pans 5 minutes and then remove to a rack to cool completely.