Banana Bread with Walnuts, Figs and Chocolate

~from Savoring Time in the Kitchen

Yields 1-2 standard-sized loaves, or 4-6 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 (6-7 small bananas)

1 cup chopped walnuts

1 cup dried Mission Figlets, stem removed and diced

3/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly butter loaf pans or spray with nonstick cooking spray. I use Bakers Joy. 

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, figs and chocolate chips, 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. My mini loaf pans only take about 40-45 minutes.  If a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, they are done. Cool in pans 5 minutes and then remove to a rack to cool completely.