Introduction
Welcome to a delightful journey of flavor with this Skinny Banana Bread recipe! There’s something indescribably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through the kitchen. This recipe is perfect for those cozy mornings or a sweet afternoon treat, offering a delicious balance of sweetness and wholesome ingredients. Made with ripe bananas and subtle notes of cinnamon, this guilt-free version uses coconut oil and whole wheat flour, ensuring you can indulge without the extra calories. So, grab your mixing bowls and let’s bake up some love!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)
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
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan to ensure your banana bread slides out easily.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ripe mashed bananas and melted coconut oil. Mix until they are well blended and creamy.
- Next, stir in the honey (or maple syrup), egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and inviting.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and whole wheat flour until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring gently just until everything is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; we want that tender crumb!
- If you’re feeling a bit cheeky, fold in the chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
- Pour the batter into your 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, leaving you with a golden-brown masterpiece.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing into that moist, delicious loaf.
Notes or Tips
This banana bread is versatile! You can easily customize it by adding your favorite mix-ins like dried fruit or spices. For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a little honey on top when serving. Also, make sure your bananas are very ripe; the more brown spots, the better the flavor!
Cooking Techniques
The key to a moist banana bread lies in the mixing technique. It’s important to mash the bananas well and combine ingredients gently to avoid toughening the bread. Remember, overmixing can lead to a dense loaf rather than a light, fluffy one. Additionally, letting the bananas ripen fully allows for that sweet, rich flavor that we all crave!
FAQ
Can I use other flours? Yes! If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can substitute with almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
How should I store leftover banana bread? Store it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness. You can also slice and freeze portions for a quick treat later!
What can I use instead of honey or maple syrup? Agave syrup or coconut sugar can work as a suitable substitute if you’re looking for a different sweetener.
Conclusion
There you have it! A simple, healthy, and utterly delightful recipe for Skinny Banana Bread that’s ready to be enjoyed by family and friends. Whether you’re having it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this treat is sure to please your palate. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and let the love of homemade goodness fill your home. Happy baking!