Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to the temperature indicated in your banana bread recipe, which is typically around 325 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients, which usually consist of flour, salt and baking powder, in banana bread recipes.

3. Substitute shortening in a 1:1 ratio for the amount of oil called for in your banana recipe. For example, if your recipe calls for 1/2-cup oil, use 1/2-cup shortening. Melt the shortening before measuring it in a microwave until it liquefies, which should take anywhere from 20 to 40 seconds, depending on the amount of shortening you’re using and your microwave’s power. Pour the shortening into a liquid measuring cup. If you come up short, melt more shortening.

4. Mix the sugar and melted shortening together, stirring until thoroughly blended.

5. Add eggs to the sugar mixture, beating well after each addition.

6. Stir in any additional ingredients, such as vanilla or nuts, along with your mashed bananas.

7. Add the melted shortening mixture to the flour mixture, and stir until just combined.

8. Grease the pan using fresh shortening or the re-solidified shortening you have left over from the melting process. Pour in about a tablespoon of flour and shake the pan until the bottom and sides are coated with a light layer of flour.

9. Bake the banana bread according to your recipe’s instructions.