Feeling Festive

I'm feeling festive today. Maybe it's the colder weather, or my early discovery of the all Christmas music radio station; either way I'm in a baking mood! Today I made some Thanksgiving goodies for the peeps in Tyler's office and our wonderful neighbors.

 

Cranberry Banana Muffins

2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries

1 2/3 cups sugar, divided

1 cup water

2 eggs

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/3 cup shortening

1 cup mashed ripe banana

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

In a small saucepan bring cranberries and one cup of sugar to a boil. Let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until berries begin to pop. Drain and set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, cream shortening and remaining sugar. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Combine the flour, baking powder, salt and baking soda; add to creamed mixture alternately with bananas. Fold in cranberry mixture and walnuts.

Fill greased or paper-lined muffin cups three-fourths full. Bake at 400 degrees F for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks.

Enjoy!