Bake It Easy

Banana Bread

Extra-ripe fruit makes for an extra-moist loaf -- ripen bananas on the countertop for about four days, until their skins are fairly well-spotted all over.

Makes: 2 loaves

Prep: 15 minutes

Bake: at 350 degrees for 35 minutes

A. After blending the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt (a whisk works best), make a well in the center by pressing dry ingredients up against side of bowl.

B. Mash the banana in a second bowl -- a potato masher comes in handy here.

C. With an electric mixer on medium speed, beat eggs, sugar, and melted butter into bananas until smooth.

• Get the recipe here