Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through your kitchen. This Whole Wheat Cinnamon Crunch Banana Bread is not only a delightful treat for the senses but also a wholesome choice that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar. Perfect for breakfast, a quick snack, or even dessert, this recipe showcases how nutritious ingredients can turn into comfort food with just a few simple steps.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 3/4 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar (for topping)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan, ensuring it’s well-coated for easy release.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth and creamy, allowing their natural sweetness to shine through.
- Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter to the bananas. Mix well until everything is fully combined and has a lovely caramel color.
- Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract, incorporating them until the mixture is velvety and smooth.
- Sprinkle the baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon over the wet ingredients. Stir to combine all the flavors beautifully.
- Gradually fold in the whole wheat flour, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will keep your bread tender.
- Gently fold in the chopped nuts, allowing them to distribute evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour the delightful batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar generously over the top, creating a crunchy golden crust as it bakes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, revealing a perfectly moist interior.
- Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For an even richer flavor, try adding a dash of nutmeg along with the cinnamon. If you prefer a sweeter bread, feel free to increase the sugars slightly. This banana bread also freezes beautifully, so make an extra loaf to enjoy later! Just wrap it tightly and store it in an airtight container.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes simple baking techniques to ensure a perfect loaf. The key lies in not overmixing once you add the flour, which keeps the bread light and fluffy. Remember to use ripe bananas for optimal sweetness and moisture; the browner, the better!
FAQ
Can I substitute the whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour?
No problem! While whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and fiber, all-purpose flour will work just as well if that’s what you have on hand.
How can I tell when the banana bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick in the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, your bread is ready to be taken out of the oven.
Can I add other ingredients like chocolate chips or dried fruit?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite add-ins for a fun twist—chocolate chips, raisins, or even shredded coconut can elevate your banana bread.
Conclusion
There you have it, a cozy recipe for Whole Wheat Cinnamon Crunch Banana Bread that promises a delightful experience with every bite. Perfectly sweet and infused with cinnamon warmth, it makes for a wonderful addition to any meal or a comforting standalone snack. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven, or toast a slice the next day for a wonderful treat. Happy baking!