Banana-Wheat Quick Bread

We grew up on banana bread. It still is a favorite snack for kids. This hearty recipe is not too heavy and is very tasty.

MAKES: 2 loaves.

INGREDIENT:

• 1 cup butter, room temperature
• 2/3 cup honey
• 4 eggs, slightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 6 very ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups whole wheat flour or part whole wheat and part unbleached white flour
• 1 cup wheat germ
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• 1 cup chopped dates (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Cream butter. Add honey and beat until smooth. Add eggs and beat until combined. Add yogurt, lemon juice, vanilla, and bananas. Stir to combine.
2. Combine dry ingredients in a separate bowl. Add to wet ingredients, and stir until well mixed. Add nuts and dates if desired. Pour into 2 buttered loaf pans.
3. Bake in a preheated 350° oven for 60 to 70 minutes. Test with a cake tester. It should come out clean. Let loaves cool in the pans for 10 to 15 minutes. Then turn out onto a rack and let cool completely before slicing.