Banana Coconut Tea Bread

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup soft butter or margarine
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 cups regular all-purpose flour (sift before measuring)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup mashed ripe banana
• 1 cup toasted flaked coconut

Directions

1. 1

   In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar.

2. 2

   Beat in eggs, one at a time. Stir in milk, lemon juice, and almond extract.

3. 3

   Sift flour again into mixing bowl along with baking powder, soda, and salt; mix thoroughly.

4. 4

   Stir in bananas; fold in toasted coconut.

5. 5

   Pour into a well-greased loaf pan (5 x 9 inches).

6. 6

   Bake in a moderate oven 350 degrees for 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. 7

   Cool in pan a few minutes; turn out on wire rack to continue cooling.

8. 8

   After the loaf is cool, wrap tightly and let it mellow for several days to enhance the flavor. Worth the wait!

9. 9

   Makes one loaf.

10. 10

    NOTE: To toast coconut sprinkle on a baking sheet and place in a moderate oven 350°F or under broiler until lightly browned, stirring occasionally.