Deliciously Healthy Banana Walnut Bread with Chocolate Delight
Indulge in this deliciously healthy twist on the classic banana walnut bread that mimics your favorite Starbucks treat! This recipe replaces refined white flour and sugar with wholesome whole wheat flour and raw honey, offering a more nutritious option without sacrificing flavor. The addition of cinnamon enhances the aroma, while the extra virgin coconut oil provides healthy fats. You can optionally fold in some dark chocolate chips for a rich finish. Perfect for a breakfast treat, snack, or dessert, this bread is kid-approved, made with love, and packed with wholesome ingredients!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
whole wheat flour
2 cups (sifted)
baking soda
1 teaspoon (n/a)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (n/a)
egg
1 (beaten)
raw honey
1/2 cup (n/a)
stevia
1/4 cup (n/a (optional))
ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon (n/a)
extra virgin coconut oil
1/2 cup (melted)
buttermilk substitute
2 tablespoons (mix 1/2 tbsp white vinegar with skim milk to make 1/2 cup)
vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (n/a)
ripe bananas
3 (mashed)
chopped walnuts
1/2 cup (n/a (reserve 1/3 cup for topping))
chocolate chips
1/2 cup (n/a (optional))
Instructions
1
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Generously grease a 9x5x3 inch loaf pan with butter and consider placing a piece of parchment paper under the batter for easy removal.
2
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, and salt, then set aside.
3
3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the egg, raw honey, stevia, ground cinnamon, and melted coconut oil until smooth and well blended.
4
4. Gradually fold the flour mixture into the egg mixture, mixing until just incorporated.
5
5. In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract and buttermilk substitute, mixing well. Pour the flour mixture into this large bowl and gently blend together without overmixing.
6
6. Fold in 1/2 cup of the chopped walnuts and the chocolate chips (if using). Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan.
7
7. Sprinkle the remaining 1/3 cup of walnuts and any additional chocolate chips on top of the batter.
8
8. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then gently remove it from the pan and cool completely on a wire rack.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this recipe?
This is a recipe for a Healthy Banana Walnut Bread with Chocolate Delight, a nutritious twist on a classic treat.
Is this banana bread healthy?
Yes, it replaces refined flour and sugar with whole wheat flour and raw honey, and uses healthy fats like coconut oil.
How does this compare to Starbucks banana bread?
It is designed to mimic the flavor of the Starbucks treat but with more wholesome, less processed ingredients.
Can I use white flour instead of whole wheat?
You can, though the nutritional profile will change and it will no longer be a whole-grain bread.
What can I use instead of raw honey?
You can substitute maple syrup or agave nectar for the honey if preferred.
Is the stevia necessary?
No, stevia is listed as an optional ingredient for those who want extra sweetness without extra calories.
Can I use butter instead of coconut oil?
Yes, melted butter can be used as a substitute for the extra virgin coconut oil.
How do I make the buttermilk substitute?
Mix 1/2 tablespoon of white vinegar with skim milk to reach a total volume of 1/2 cup.
What kind of bananas are best for this bread?
Very ripe or overripe bananas with brown spots are best because they are sweeter and easier to mash.
How many bananas do I need?
The recipe calls for 3 ripe bananas.
Can I omit the walnuts?
Yes, the walnuts can be omitted or replaced with other nuts like pecans if you have an allergy or preference.
Are chocolate chips required?
No, the chocolate chips are an optional addition for a richer finish.
What oven temperature is required?
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit or 163 degrees Celsius.
How long does the bread take to bake?
It takes approximately 1 hour in the oven.
How do I know when the banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is finished baking.
What size loaf pan should I use?
Use a standard 9x5x3 inch loaf pan.
Should I grease the pan?
Yes, generously grease the pan with butter to prevent the bread from sticking.
Is parchment paper necessary?
It is recommended to place a piece of parchment paper under the batter for easier removal from the pan.
How long should I let the bread cool?
Let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then move it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Can I freeze this banana bread?
Yes, this bread freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the recipe description mentions that it is kid-approved and made with love.
How should I store the bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.
Can I make this vegan?
You can try using a flax egg and a dairy-free milk substitute, though the original recipe uses egg and milk.
Why use whole wheat flour?
Whole wheat flour adds fiber and more nutrients compared to refined white flour.
What does the cinnamon do?
Cinnamon enhances the aroma and adds a warm depth of flavor to the bread.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Yes, you could add dried fruit or different types of seeds to customize the recipe.
What is the best way to mash bananas?
You can use a fork or a potato masher in a large bowl until they are smooth.
Why is my bread dry?
Dryness can occur if you overbake the bread or use too much flour. Ensure you measure the flour accurately.
Can I use this batter for muffins?
Yes, you can use the same batter for muffins, though you will need to reduce the baking time significantly.
What if I do not have baking soda?
Baking soda is a crucial leavening agent here; without it, the bread will not rise properly.