Banana nut bread is a classic comfort food that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich, nutty flavor of walnuts. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this easy recipe will have you baking a delicious loaf in no time. Not only is it tasty, but it also provides a good source of potassium, fiber, and healthy fats. Read on for some healthy tips and substitutions to make this recipe even better for you.
Healthy Tips and Substitutions
- Use Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
- Reduce Sugar: Use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, or reduce the sugar by a third for a less sweet but still delicious loaf.
- Healthy Fats: Substitute butter with coconut oil or applesauce for a healthier fat option.
- Add-ins: Consider adding flaxseeds, chia seeds, or a handful of dark chocolate chips for extra nutrition and flavor.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter or coconut oil
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or 1/3 cup honey/maple syrup)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (or pecans)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Bananas: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Stir the melted butter (or coconut oil) into the mashed bananas. Add the sugar (or honey/maple syrup), beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the banana mixture. Then, gently stir in the flour until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the Nuts: Gently fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter.
- Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 60 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
This easy banana nut bread recipe is perfect for using up overripe bananas and makes a wonderful homemade treat. Enjoy your healthy and delicious banana nut bread with a cup of tea or coffee!
