Healthy Banana Nut Bread
by Tracy Shaw
Love to bake? Try these healthier version of a classic banana nut bread recipe! Perfect for breakfast, brunch or a snack.
Ready for a delicious way to start your morning? I got you!
Banana bread is actually pretty easy to make, delicious, and a great way to use up overripe bananas. We love any recipe that helps reduce food waste 🙂 Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this simple recipe is a must-try. With a few basic ingredients and a little bit of time in the kitchen, you’ll be enjoying a warm, sweet, and comforting treat in about an hour.
What is the number one mistake made when making banana bread?
Bananas are sweet on their own! You don’t have to add a ton of sugar, using too much sugar can make the bread too sweet and mask the flavor of the bananas. Oh, and be sure not to over-mix the batter, that can lead to a tough bread.
Different ways to enjoy banana nut bread
- Slice the banana bread into thick slices and use it as the base for French toast.
- Cut the banana bread into small cubes and use it as the base for a sweet bread pudding.
- Layer slices of bread, whipped cream, and sliced bananas in a trifle dish for a dessert that’s both easy and delicious.
- Blend chunks of banana bread with milk and frozen bananas to make a thick and creamy smoothie bowl.
- Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two slices of banana bread for a tasty twist on a classic ice cream sandwich.
These are just a few ideas, but the possibilities are endless! Of course, our favorite way to enjoy it is warm right out of the oven.
What is the history of banana bread?
Banana bread has its roots in the United States during the Great Depression. At that time, people were looking for ways to use up overripe bananas that would otherwise go to waste. Baking banana bread was a way to use up these bananas and stretch the food budget. The first known recipe for banana bread appeared in a Betty Crocker cookbook in the 1930s, and it quickly became a popular treat due to its sweet taste and moist texture.
Why do we love banana nut bread
- This bread is naturally sweet and moist due to the overripe bananas that are used in the batter.
- Banana bread is a comfort food that brings back memories of childhood or simpler times. Its sweet and comforting taste can evoke feelings of nostalgia.
- Banana bread is a relatively easy to make and doesn’t require many special ingredients. It’s a great option for those who enjoy baking, but don’t have a lot of experience….like me!
- Compared to other sweet treats, banana bread is a healthier option as it contains a natural sweetener (ripe bananas) and can be made with whole-grain flour and other healthy ingredients.
Can banana bread actually be healthy?
It can be made healthier by using whole-grain flour, reducing the amount of sugar, using healthier fats like oil or yogurt instead of butter, and adding nutritious mix-ins like nuts. However, it’s still a treat that should be consumed in moderation as it contains calories and carbohydrates.
Why use whole wheat flour instead of all purpose flour
Whole wheat flour is a healthier option than all-purpose flour because it contains more fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Whole wheat flour is made from the entire wheat kernel, including the bran and germ, which provides additional nutrients. Using whole wheat flour in banana bread can make it a healthier treat.
Health benefits of bananas
- Bananas are a good source of potassium, which is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart function.
- Bananas contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, which can help regulate digestion and lower cholesterol levels.
- Bananas are a good source of vitamins B6 and C, as well as magnesium and manganese.
- Bananas are low in fat and calories.
- Bananas are naturally sweet, making them a good alternative to added sugars in baking and cooking.
Can you leave out the nuts?
Of course! We added them in for a bit of texture and add nutrition, but you can definitely leave them out if desired.
Alright, let’s get to baking!
Healthy Banana Nut Bread
Ingredients
- 12 tbsp unsalted butter softened
- ¾ cups light brown sugar – packed
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
- 3 cups ripe bananas – mashed approximately 5-6 bananas
- 2 ½ cups whole wheat flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1/2 cup pecans chopped, optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°.
- Spray two loaf pans with non-stick spray.
- In a large bowl cream together the butter and sugar with a spatula.
- Add in the vanilla extract, eggs, and the mashed bananas.
- Continue to mix until well blended.
- In another bowl whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until all the ingredients are combined together.
- Fold in the chopped pecans.
- Pour the batter evenly in the two loaf pans.
- Place the pans in the oven and bake for about 50- 60 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center of the loaves comes out clean.
- Let the pans cool for about 20-30 minutes before removing the banana bread and slicing.
