Banana Bread

This freezes well and has been a family favorite for years. I just baked a batch to send with my older son as he moves to his new apartment.

Makes 12 generous servings

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup applesauce
1 whole egg
1 egg white
1 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla

Combine these ingredients. In a separate bowl, mix together:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup oatmeal
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp cinnamon
1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Stir dry ingredients into wet ingredients.
Add chopped walnuts (if using).
Pour into greased loaf pan. Bake 60 minutes at 350. Check center of loaf to make sure it’s fully done before removing from oven. This will get very brown before it’s done on the inside.
You can also make this into muffins or mini-muffins. Just pay attention to the bake time. When they’re nicely brown on top, they’re done.

NOTE:  If I’m making a double batch, I just use 3 whole eggs. If bananas are on the small side, I use 2 whole eggs for a single batch.

VARIATION:  For added nutrition and texture, add 1/4 cup wheat germ or ground flaxseed. (These ingredients not included in nutrition label below.)