Healthy Banana Bread Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
Method:
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, honey or maple syrup, Greek yogurt, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and egg. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Make sure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
Combine the Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a denser bread.
Add Mix-ins: If using, fold in the chopped nuts and dark chocolate chips. These add a delightful crunch and a touch of indulgence to the bread.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Variations & Tips:
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey/maple syrup, depending on your preference.
- Extra Moisture: If you prefer an even moister bread, add an extra banana or a tablespoon of applesauce to the batter.
- Flavor Boost: For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of nutmeg or a pinch of cloves to the dry ingredients.
- Storage Tips: Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Final Thought: This Healthy Banana Bread recipe is a delicious way to enjoy a classic treat with a nutritious twist. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with a smear of almond butter, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, you'll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and again. Enjoy the wholesome goodness of this banana bread, and feel good about treating yourself and your loved ones to a healthier alternative.
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