Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of banana bread! There’s something incredibly comforting about the sweet aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home. This Skinny Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is not just your average loaf; it combines the rich flavor of ripe bananas and dark chocolate, while keeping things on the lighter side. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, this recipe won’t weigh you down. Let’s create something delicious together!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
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 standard loaf pan with cooking spray or butter to ensure an easy release.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, unsweetened applesauce, honey (or maple syrup), Greek yogurt, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix together until everything is well incorporated and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, baking powder, salt, and whole wheat flour. This will ensure that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Remember, overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, and we want it to be tender and fluffy!
- Fold in the dark chocolate chips, ensuring they are well distributed throughout the batter for that delicious burst of flavor in every bite.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula for an even bake.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end to ensure it doesn’t over-bake.
- Once baked, let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes or Tips
- Make sure your bananas are really ripe; they should have plenty of brown spots for optimal sweetness.
- If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, you can substitute it with regular yogurt, but the texture might be slightly different.
- For an extra touch, feel free to add nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe is a great way to practice your mixing and folding skills. The key is to gently combine the wet and dry ingredients. This helps to keep the banana bread light and airy while still ensuring a beautiful, moist interior. Remember, there’s no need to overmix—it’s okay if there are a few lumps!
FAQ
Can I use other flour types? Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute with all-purpose flour or an alternative gluten-free blend, though the texture and taste may vary slightly.
How do I store the banana bread? Store your banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also refrigerate it for longer freshness or freeze individual slices for a quick snack later.
Conclusion
This Skinny Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is the perfect way to indulge your sweet tooth without the guilt. Moist, flavorful, and filled with gooey chocolate chips, it’s bound to be a hit with family and friends alike. Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or as a tasty afternoon treat. Happy baking!