Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the welcoming aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through your kitchen. This Whole Wheat Cinnamon Crunch Banana Bread is the perfect blend of wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors, making it a delightful treat for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. The ripe bananas lend a natural sweetness, while the warm spices and crunchy walnuts create a rich tapestry of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar (for topping)
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
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan to ensure your banana bread comes out effortlessly.
- In a large bowl, take your ripe bananas and mash them with a fork until they’re smooth and creamy. The riper the bananas, the better the flavor!
- Pour in the melted coconut oil and mix until fully combined, creating a luscious base for your bread.
- Add the brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, stirring until everything is thoroughly mixed and the mixture is velvety.
- Sprinkle the baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon over your wet mixture, and mix well to incorporate these delightful flavors.
- Gently fold in the whole wheat flour, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as we want a tender loaf!
- Finally, fold in the chopped walnuts for that wonderful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula, and then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar generously over the surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, promising a golden-brown loaf.
- Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This waiting time will make your home smell amazing!
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, feel free to add in some chocolate chips or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. If you don’t have walnuts on hand, pecans make a delightful alternative!
This banana bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container for up to three months. Simply thaw it at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy a slice!
Cooking Techniques
Mashing the bananas thoroughly is crucial for achieving a smooth and consistent batter. Using ripe bananas that are speckled and slightly brown will result in a sweeter, more flavorful loaf. Additionally, be sure to measure your flour correctly; spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid a dense bread.
FAQ
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can swap it out for all-purpose flour if you prefer a lighter texture. Just keep in mind that you will lose some of the wholesome benefits of whole wheat flour.
How can I tell when my banana bread is done baking?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached. If it comes out with wet batter, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Conclusion
This Whole Wheat Cinnamon Crunch Banana Bread is a wonderful way to indulge in something sweet while still keeping it wholesome. Every bite is filled with the comforting warmth of cinnamon and the delightful crunch of walnuts, making it a home-baked classic. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or toasted with a bit of butter, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy baking!