For 1 loaf you will need:

1/2 c. butter
3/4 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 3/4 c. all purpose flour
2 3/4 tsp. baking powder
1 c. mashed ripe bananas (about 3 med.)
1 c. coarsely chopped dried fruit (apricots, pears, peaches, apples)
1/2 c. chopped walnuts

Beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Add the eggs and beat until thick and pale yellow. In a separate bowl combine the dry ingredients and stir until well mixed. Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing well.

Stir in the bananas and chopped fruit. Blend in only 1/3 cup of the walnuts. Pour the batter into a greased 4 1/2 x 8 1/2 inch loaf pan. Sprinkle the top with remaining nuts.

Bake at 350 degrees for 65 to 70 minutes or until a tester inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool bread 20 to 30 minutes before turning out on a rack to cool completely.

Good served with: Fruit or chicken salad, spread with whipped butter or cream cheese.

Tips: This bread will slice easier if wrapped and stored for 12 hours. You can substitute any chopped dried fruit in any combination you wish.

This is banana bread with a difference - a very agreeable difference. In addition to the banana, there is a veritable cornucopia of other fruit; dried apricots, peaches, pears and apples, as well as chopped nuts. It makes an attractive and delicious bread you will be happy to serve.

Preparation time: 30 minutes. Oven temperature: 350 degrees. Baking time: 65 to 70 minutes.