Introduction
There’s something truly comforting about the smell of freshly baked banana bread wafting through the house. This Skinny Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is a delightful twist on the classic recipe, maintaining the rich, sweet flavors we all adore while trimming down some of the guilt. With ripe bananas mashed into a tender loaf, this recipe invites you to indulge without overdoing it. Whether you enjoy a slice for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert, this banana bread is sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 70 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted coconut oil, stirring until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add in the brown sugar, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract, followed by the egg. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Sprinkle in the baking soda, a pinch of salt, and cinnamon. Stir gently to combine.
- Gradually fold the whole wheat flour into the wet mixture. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
- Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
If you want to enhance the flavor, feel free to add a handful of chopped nuts or a sprinkle of oats on top before baking. Make sure your bananas are very ripe—they should be speckled and soft for the best sweetness and flavor. This banana bread can also be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, or you can freeze slices for a quick treat anytime!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe showcases simple yet effective techniques. Mashing the bananas will not only incorporate natural sweetness into the bread but also creates a wonderfully moist texture. The folding technique used to mix in the flour helps maintain that softness without overworking the gluten. Remember, less is more when it comes to mixing!
FAQ
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?
Absolutely! While whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and extra nutrition, all-purpose flour can be a great substitute if that’s what you have on hand.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes! You can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) to make it vegan friendly.
How can I make the banana bread more chocolatey?
If you’re a chocolate lover, feel free to add an extra half cup of chocolate chips or even some cocoa powder for a double chocolate twist!
Conclusion
This Skinny Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is the perfect way to enjoy a beloved classic in a healthier way. With the delightful flavor of ripe bananas, the richness of coconut oil, and pockets of dark chocolate, every bite is a testament to homemade comfort. So, grab those overripe bananas and indulge in this guilt-free delight that’s sure to bring smiles with every slice!