Introduction
If there’s anything that can brighten up your kitchen, it’s the sweet, comforting aroma of freshly baked banana bread. This Skinny Banana Bread is not only easy to make but also a healthier twist on a classic favorite. Made with ripe bananas, whole wheat flour, and sweetened naturally with honey or maple syrup, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this delightful recipe will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon 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: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it lightly.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until they are smooth and creamy, allowing their natural sweetness to shine through.
- Stir in the melted coconut oil into the bananas, creating a luscious base for your batter.
- Add the honey or maple syrup, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the banana mixture. Mix until everything is well combined and delightful.
- Sprinkle the baking soda and a pinch of salt over the mixture. Gently fold to combine, being careful not to overmix.
- Next, add the fragrant cinnamon and whole wheat flour. Fold until there are no visible streaks of flour left in the batter.
- Pour the thick batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even bake.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, revealing your golden brown creation.
- Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help it set beautifully!
Notes or Tips
For a fun twist, consider adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to the batter before baking. These additions can provide extra texture and burst of flavor! If you don’t have whole wheat flour on hand, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour, but the bread will be a touch less hearty.
Cooking Techniques
Mashing the bananas effectively is key to a smooth batter. Be sure to use ripe bananas as they are sweeter and lend a lovely flavor to the bread. Mixing gently when adding your dry ingredients will prevent your banana bread from becoming tough, ensuring that it’s tender and moist.
FAQ
Can I freeze banana bread?
Absolutely! Once the banana bread is completely cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Simply thaw it at room temperature before serving.
How do I know when the banana bread is done baking?
When a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, your banana bread is ready! If there are moist crumbs attached, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Conclusion
This Skinny Banana Bread is not only a wholesome option but also a delightful treat that brings warmth to any occasion. Perfectly sweet, moist, and satisfying, it invites you to enjoy every bite. So gather those ripe bananas sitting on your countertop, and let the baking begin! Your kitchen will be filled with love, and your taste buds will thank you.