Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of homemade banana bread! This Skinny Banana Bread offers all the classic flavors you love, but with a healthier twist. Made using ripe bananas and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even a late-night treat. As the bread bakes, your kitchen will fill with the sweet aroma of cinnamon and bananas, making it nearly impossible to resist a slice (or two!).
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
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 with a little coconut oil or non-stick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted coconut oil, stirring until well blended.
- Mix in the brown sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the baking soda, pinch of salt, and ground cinnamon to the banana mixture, mixing thoroughly to incorporate.
- Gently fold in the whole wheat flour using a spatula or wooden spoon. Be cautious not to overmix; the batter should be just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for approximately 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For added flavor, consider mixing in a handful of chopped nuts or chocolate chips! If your bananas aren’t quite as ripe, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag overnight. This will intensify their sweetness and make your banana bread even tastier.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe incorporates mashing and folding techniques that ensure your banana bread is tender and moist. Be gentle when folding in the flour; it helps maintain the light texture of the bread. Properly measuring your ingredients can also make a significant difference, so be sure to use the spoon-and-level method for the flour!
FAQ
Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?
Absolutely! While whole wheat flour adds a lovely nutty flavor and additional nutrients, you can use all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.
How should I store the leftover banana bread?
Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for up to three months!
Conclusion
Now that you have this delicious and easy Skinny Banana Bread recipe, it’s time to get baking! Each slice is not only delicious but also filled with the goodness of bananas and whole wheat. Perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!), this banana bread will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors and the joy of homemade goodness!