Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of freshly baked banana bread wafting through your home. It’s a warm hug in loaf form, especially when spiced up with cinnamon and a delightful crunch from nuts. This Whole Wheat Cinnamon Crunch Banana Bread is not only delicious but also offers a wholesome twist with whole wheat flour. Perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, this banana bread will have your friends and family asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup yogurt or sour cream
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar (for topping)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure your bread comes out perfectly.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. This mixture will be the foundation of your delicious bread.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a wonderful base for sweetness.
- Add the eggs to the butter mixture, one at a time, stirring well after each addition. Then mix in the fragrant vanilla extract and mashed bananas, making sure everything is beautifully combined.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, alternating with the yogurt or sour cream. Mix until just combined; we want to keep that bread tender!
- If you’re adding nuts for that extra crunch, fold them in gently at this stage.
- Pour the luscious batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar generously over the top for a sweet finishing touch.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling that your bread is perfectly baked.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing to enjoy the full array of flavors.
Notes or Tips
For an added burst of flavor, consider tossing in some chocolate chips or dried fruit along with the nuts. Remember, the riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be! If you want to make this bread ahead of time, it freezes beautifully—just wrap it securely and store it in an airtight container for up to three months.
Cooking Techniques
When creaming the butter and sugar, don’t rush this step. It’s crucial for creating a fluffy texture that will elevate your banana bread. Also, be sure not to overmix the batter; this will help keep the bread tender and prevent it from becoming too dense. Lastly, checking the loaf a few minutes before the timer goes off will ensure you don’t over-bake it.
FAQ
Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely! Just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid for the best results.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the whole wheat and all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it has xanthan gum included for the best texture.
How do I store leftover banana bread?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate it for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze it as mentioned earlier.
Conclusion
Enjoy your journey to baking this delightful Whole Wheat Cinnamon Crunch Banana Bread! The blend of flavors, the hearty texture, and that heavenly aroma will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring warmth to your kitchen. Share it with loved ones or savor a slice quietly with your coffee—it’s sure to become a cherished recipe you’ll return to again and again.