Go Bananas

What do you do when you are faced with this?

Why, make banana bread, of course!!

Banana bread is one of those staples that I am nearly able to concoct in my sleep. Although, I like to keep it evolving. Sometimes I'm in the mood for fancy-schmancy complete with walnuts and coconut, other times simple-and-sweet, studded with a few spare banana slices is my desire.

I found my equilibrium in this loaf, however. Needing a tasty treat for dessert to bring along for a dinner party with girlfriends, it was a perfect balance of sweetness with those well-ripened bananas and heartiness with the oat bran and touch of whole wheat flour. It doubled as breakfast the next morning....

Sweet, Wholesome Banana Bread

1 lemon, juiced

3 very ripe bananas (and an extra for slicing on top)

1/2 c. brown sugar

1/2 c. butter

1 c. all-purpose flour

1/2 c. whole wheat flour (or all 1 1/2 c. whole wheat)

1/2 c. oat bran

1/2 t. salt

1/2 t. baking powder

1/2 t. baking soda

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Mash bananas in a large bowl. Mix in lemon juice. Cream butter and sugar together, and add to banana mixture.

Mix dry ingredients together. Stir into banana mixture. It should be thick and lumpy.

Grease a loaf pan. Place batter into loaf pan. Bake 35-45 minutes, or until inserted knife comes out clean.