From November 1980 – November 1990, I worked as a Child Psych RN at an inpatient facility for children – both a heart-wrenching and immensely rewarding experience.  I worked with an amazing staff there and, from time to time, we would celebrate an event at the hospital with a potluck meal.  One particular nurse would always bring this absolutely delicious banana bread – filled with small chunks of banana, crushed pineapple and fragrant cinnamon.  She adamantly refused to share the recipe!  Bear in mind that this was before the days of the world-wide-web and search engines.  She promised that if she ever left she would share the recipe with all of us.  The day finally came that she turned in her resignation due to her husband’s job transfer.  I must admit I said “we’ll miss you” but (secretly) couldn’t wait to get my hands on the recipe!  As promised, she did, indeed, share the recipe with us before she left.

And I, of course, shared it with anyone who wanted it…

Favorite Banana Bread

3 cups all-purpose flour

2 cups sugar

1 teaspoon soda

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

3 eggs, beaten

1 & 1/4 cup vegetable oil

2 cups mashed ripe bananas

1 (15 & 1/4 oz.) can crushed pineapple, DRAINED

2 teaspoons vanilla

Combine the dry ingredients.  Stir in (optional) nuts and set aside.

Combine the remaining ingredients and add to the dry ingredients – stirring just until moistened.

Spray 3 loaf pans (9 x 5 x 3) with Baker’s Joy (or similar product).

Makes small loaves.

For larger loaves, use two loaf pans.

Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 45 minutes – 1 hour based on pan size and oven.  Just watch closely.

Enjoy and feel free to share the recipe!  😉