Is it ok to use olive oil in place of shortening baking banana bread?

While olive oil can technically be used as a substitute for shortening in baking banana bread, it's important to note that the results will be different. Shortening is a solid fat at room temperature, while olive oil is a liquid. This difference in texture can affect the final product in several ways:

1. Crumb texture: Shortening creates a more tender and crumbly texture in baked goods compared to olive oil. This is because the solid fat in shortening traps air as it creams with sugar, creating a light and airy texture. Olive oil, being liquid, does not trap air as effectively, resulting in a denser and potentially less fluffy bread.

2. Flavor and aroma: Olive oil has a distinct flavor and aroma that can be noticeable in the final product. While some people may enjoy this flavor, others may find it overwhelming or unappealing in a banana bread. Shortening, on the other hand, has a relatively neutral flavor and aroma, allowing the flavors of the banana and other ingredients to shine through.

3. Moisture: Olive oil adds moisture to baked goods, which can be a positive or negative depending on the recipe. In the case of banana bread, which already contains a significant amount of moisture from the bananas, adding too much olive oil may result in a soggy or overly moist texture. Shortening, on the other hand, adds some moisture without compromising the overall texture of the bread.

4. Nutritional value: Olive oil is a healthy fat and can provide some nutritional benefits, such as monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants. Shortening, on the other hand, is a saturated fat and does not offer the same nutritional value as olive oil.

Overall, while it is possible to use olive oil in place of shortening in baking banana bread, the results will be different in terms of texture, flavor, and nutritional value. If you are looking for a healthier alternative to shortening, you may want to consider using a different oil with a more neutral flavor and aroma, such as canola or vegetable oil.