Banana bread is a popular bake that is perfect for a healthy breakfast, a nutritious snack or even as a post-workout treat. But often traditional banana breads are filled with sugar and refined flour, making them less suitable for those who want to eat healthily. Fortunately, it is possible to make a healthier version that is just as tasty! In this article, we share a delicious recipe for healthy banana bread that is packed with nutritious ingredients.
Why banana bread is healthy
- Wholemeal flour: this provides fibre and nutrients you won’t find in refined flour.
- Healthy fats: coconut oil is a source of healthy fats that are good for your heart and satiating.
- Natural sweeteners: honey or maple syrup add sweetness without the added refined sugars.
- Bananas: rich in potassium, fibre and vitamins, and add natural sweetness and moisture to bread.
- Nuts (optional): add extra protein, healthy fats and crunch to the banana bread.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 3 eggs
- 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups wholemeal flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C and grease a baking tin with a little coconut oil or use baking paper.
- Mash the bananas in a large bowl until well mashed.
- Add the eggs, melted coconut oil, honey (or maple syrup) and vanilla extract to the bowl with the mashed bananas. Mix well.
- Add the wholemeal flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon and a pinch of salt to the banana mixture. Stir everything well until you have a smooth batter.
- If you choose to add nuts, gently fold them through the batter.
- Pour the batter into the greased baking tin and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake the banana bread in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
- Remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the baking tin for a few minutes before removing it from the tin.
- Slice the banana bread and enjoy it as a nutritious breakfast, a healthy snack or a post-workout treat!
This healthy banana bread recipe is a great way to enjoy a delicious treat without the guilt. With its nutritious ingredients and flavourful result, this banana bread is a winner for anyone who wants to eat healthy but doesn’t want to compromise on taste. Give it a try and discover for yourself how delicious healthy can be!