Baking and Hugs
When I was 22 I had the opportunity to live in Boston with my dear husband (then boyfriend). The city was amazing and held every possibility for the future. It had an energy and an excitement that I had never experienced. I loved wandering the streets, stumbling upon a great coffee house, and the chance that every person could become a part of our lives. While it was fantastic, there were times I was deeply homesick. I missed Sunday brunch with my parents and the ability to stop by for a hug. When I missed them, I baked. I baked a lot. Several times a month I would drop off something scrumptious to my buddies at the cigar shop, aka my second family. Their favorite became my banana bread and when I first left Boston they would call me on Sunday’s to ask me to ship them a loaf.
Now I only live two hours away from my mom and dad but some days I wish they lived in the same city. So tonight, I make banana bread and remember that at least they are not 3,000 miles away and I can get a hug this weekend.
Spiced Banana Bread:
1 stick of butter (room temp)
3/4 c sugar
2 eggs (room temp)
1 1/2 c flour
1 t salt
1 t baking powder
1 t cinnamon
1/2 t nutmeg
1/4 t allspice
1/4 t ground cloves
3/4 c sour cream
1 large over ripe banana
1 t vanilla
Preheat oven to 350 and grease a loaf pan. With an electric mixer, cream butter and sugar. Once the butter and sugar is light and fluffy add eggs, one at a time. Beating well after each addition.
Sift together flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice and cloves. Add to the butter mixture and combine well.
Add sour cream, mashed banana, and vanilla. Mix just until blended together. Pour into prepared loaf pan and bake about 45-50 minutes. The top should spring back when touched lightly. Let cool before unmolding. Most importantly….share it with someone who makes you smile!
restaurantwife 
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