Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through the kitchen. This Healthy Banana Bread recipe is not only easy to make but also a delightful treat that feels indulgent without the guilt. Made with ripe bananas, wholesome whole wheat flour, and a touch of sweetness from maple syrup or honey, this banana bread strikes a fantastic balance between flavor and nutrition. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, a snack, or even a light dessert, this loaf is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, use a fork to mash the ripe bananas until they are smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the melted coconut oil until it’s well integrated with the bananas.
- Add the maple syrup (or honey), beaten egg, and vanilla extract, and mix until everything is smooth and combined.
- Sprinkle the baking soda and a pinch of salt over the mixture, and then stir to incorporate.
- Gently fold in the whole wheat flour, rolled oats, and cinnamon (if desired), mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- If you’re using nuts, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans at this stage.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For even more flavor, consider adding a handful of chocolate chips or dried fruit to the batter. If you prefer a sweeter loaf, you can increase the amount of maple syrup or honey to suit your taste. This banana bread also freezes wonderfully—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. You can enjoy a slice of goodness any time you need a quick treat!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes simple mixing and baking techniques. Make sure your bananas are very ripe to achieve maximum sweetness and flavor. You can tell they’re ready when their peels are dark and speckled. When measuring the flour, it’s best to spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife—this helps avoid packing more flour than necessary, ensuring a tender loaf.
FAQ
Can I make this banana bread vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) or another egg replacement of your choice.
How should I store leftover banana bread?
Keep any leftover banana bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing it.
Conclusion
This Healthy Banana Bread is the perfect way to use up those ripe bananas sitting on your countertop. With every slice, you’ll enjoy that rich, moist texture paired with wholesome ingredients that not only taste good but make you feel good as well. So grab your ingredients, turn on the oven, and indulge in a lovely homemade treat that is sure to warm your heart and soul!