My dear family friend Brenda, has been baking and cooking for me since I was seven years old. She is about 10 years older than me and was like a mom to me, now we are the best of friends.  I spent many summers with her and so blessed to still have her in my daily life.

Those summers are some of my best childhood memories. We spent them taking long walks talking about life and my future (true story), relaxing by the pool, throwing incredible summer picnics, cooking and baking. This banana bread is her recipe and our families go-to  (my favorite).  She made it for me throughout my life (and still makes for me), now my girls LOVE it too! It’s important to me that we all make healthy choices and this banana bread helps check that box.

Banana Bread

1 1/2 cup flour

1/2 cup milk (I use @califiafarms almond milk)

1/2 cup oatmeal

3 very ripe bananas

2 eggs (I use 1/2 cup egg whites)

1 stick melted butter

2 tbsp cinnamon

1 tbsp vanilla

2 tbsp finely ground flaxseed

1 tsp baking soda

1/2 cup raw organic sugar

Mix everything together in a large mixing bowl, no specific order.

Place mixture in greased 4 1/2 x 8 1/2 loaf pan (use whatever you have).

Sprinkle the top with light brown sugar.

Bake at 350 degrees for 50 to 60 minutes (my oven takes 60 mins.).

Check around 50 minutes to see if center is cooked.

Poke the center with toothpick. When toothpick comes out clean with no batter, it’s done.

I hope you enjoy it!

-Renée