Golden Banana Loaves

Are you frantic yet??? Have you completely lost your mind???  I know I felt that way yesterday.  All the hustle and bustle is upon us.  Today, I'm back on track.  I actually had a few minutes this morning to read, and make banana bread.

I make this recipe about once a week.  It is by far Jay's favorite and the children like it too.  If I don't put a limit on the amount he can have, Jay will literally eat a whole loaf at once. 

This is actually a combination of two different recipes.  The first recipe is from the Cake Mix Doctor, and the second recipe is an adaptation from a Pillsbury quick bread mix.  I took the a cake mix base, and then add maple syrup from the quick bread mix.  The result is a super moist, banana bread, with a layer of flavors.  Jay always jokes, that getting a piece out in tact is a victory.  It's so moist, and likes to fall apart.  Also, because it is so moist, it freezes well.

I have made this bread for a lot of people.  It is always well received and I get tons of compliments.  So you need a last minute gift???  Make a loaf or two and give them away.  I guarantee you will be a hit :) 

recipe

1 yellow cake mix
3 ripe bananas, mashed
3/4 c. soured milk, add 1 1/2 tsp. white vinegar to milk and let stand 30 minutes
1/2 c. brown sugar
1/2 c. vegetable oil
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 c. maple syrup
3 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla

Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl.  Mix until well blended.  Pour batter evenly into two 8 inch loaf pans.  Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until toothpick comes out clean.  Cool on baking rack.

Wholesome Wednesday (Chocolate Covered Bananas)

Growing up, I attended our county fair every year.  It is quite a large fair and my most favorite part has always been the food.  I LOVE fair food.  By far, my favorite sweet treat is the chocolate covered bananas.  Each year I would make a bee line for the stand and get one plain chocolate dipped treat. 

There are various toppings you can use such as nuts, coconut, chocolate chips, or sprinkles.  Today I used rainbow sprinkles because they were handy.  I love this treat as a mom too.  It's a little indulgent with the chocolate, but for the most part, a healthier option than say ice cream.  This is also a great activity to get the kids involved in.  They can help roll the bananas in the toppings.

What you need:

3 to 4 firm ripe bananas, not too ripe
2 cups milk chocolate chips or merkens
Popsicle sticks
various toppings (sprinkles, nuts, coconut, etc.)

Peel and cut the bananas in half.  Insert the popsicle sticks and lay on a cookie sheet.  At this point put them in the freezer until very cold and firm (several hours).

After the bananas are frozen, in a double boiler, melt your chocolate until smooth.  Hanging onto the popsicle stick, roll your banana through the chocolate until evenly coated.  Top with nuts, sprinkles, coconut, etc.   Put back in the freezer until hardened.  Store in an airtight container in the freezer for several days.

Wholesome Wednesday (Chocolate Banana Shake)

Okay, I literally have about 15 minutes before I need to take Brandon to library class. I just walked Adam to school and realized I haven't had breakfast.  So I opted for something quick and filling. This shake took about 30 seconds to assemble and blend. 

recipe

6 oz skim milk
2 tablespoons chocolate protein powder (low sugar, whey protein powder)
1 small banana
1/4 cup plain yogurt

So to make this super easy, I put all the ingredients into a tall travel cup and used my immersion blender. I mixed it for about 20 seconds until combined. (if you don't have an immersion blender use a regular blender or drink mixer)

The yogurt and banana give it a smooth and thick texture.  It's satisfying and tastes great.  Gotta go to library...happy Wednesday!!!