Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the enticing aroma of freshly baked banana bread filling your kitchen. This healthy banana bread recipe brings together the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the rich flavor of coconut oil, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of love, you can whip up this moist, tender loaf, packed with comforting spices and optional goodies like nuts and dark chocolate chips. Let’s get baking!
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 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with coconut oil or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with the melted coconut oil. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the maple syrup (or honey), beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the banana mixture, and mix until everything is well combined.
- Sprinkle the baking soda, salt, and cinnamon over the wet ingredients, stirring just until incorporated.
- Gently fold in the whole wheat flour until you see no dry streaks. If you’re using walnuts, pecans, or dark chocolate chips, add them at this stage and fold until they are evenly distributed.
- Pour the delicious batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth 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, let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For an extra hint of flavor, feel free to add nuts such as chopped pecans or walnuts, or a handful of dark chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. If your bananas are super ripe, they will make the bread even sweeter and more flavorful!
Cooking Techniques
When you mash the bananas, use a fork or a potato masher for a smooth consistency. Folding in the flour gently will keep your banana bread light and fluffy. Remember not to over-mix the batter, as this can lead to a denser loaf. Keeping an eye on your bread during the last few minutes of baking ensures it doesn’t over-bake, resulting in a perfect golden-brown crust.
FAQ
Can I use different flours? Yes! While whole wheat flour gives a nice nutty flavor, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour or a gluten-free blend if necessary.
How should I store leftover banana bread? Wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.
Conclusion
This healthy banana bread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With its tender texture, rich flavors, and versatility, it’s perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a delightful dessert. Each bite offers a comforting warmth that’s hard to resist. Enjoy sharing this delicious loaf with family and friends, or savor it on your own—it’s that good!