Nutty & Moist Banana Oat Loaf
Indulge in this Nutty & Moist Banana Oat Loaf that merges the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the wholesome goodness of oats and nuts. This delightful loaf is not only incredibly moist and packed with flavor but is also a heart-healthy treat to start your day right. Using ripe bananas, ground rolled oats, and a hint of fragrant spices, this loaf provides the perfect balance of taste and nutrition. Whether enjoyed at breakfast or as a tasty snack, this loaf is bound to become a family favorite. Don't forget about the optional organic raisins that add an extra burst of sweetness and texture!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
16
Ingredients
Ingredients
Whole Wheat Flour
1 cup (sifted)
Ground Rolled Oats
1/2 cup
Sugar
1/3 cup
Baking Powder
1 1/2 teaspoons
Baking Soda
1 teaspoon
Ground Flax Seeds
1/4 cup
Cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon (or more to taste)
Nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon
Clove
1/4 teaspoon
Salt
a small pinch
Mashed Banana
1 cup (about 3 small or medium, mashed)
Unsweetened Applesauce
1/3 cup (1 small plastic cup)
Vanilla Extract
1 teaspoon
Egg
1
Honey
2 tablespoons (for the batter)
Organic Raisins
1/2 cup (optional)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, ground rolled oats, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground flax seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients.
3
In a separate bowl, mash the bananas thoroughly using a potato masher or a fork until smooth.
4
Add the unsweetened applesauce, vanilla extract, egg, and honey to the mashed bananas. Whisk together until fully combined.
5
Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix as this can affect the texture.
6
Fold in the organic raisins carefully, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7
Pour the batter into a greased 8x5, 8x4, or 8x3 inch loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
8
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45-55 minutes, but keep an eye on it after 40 minutes due to variations in oven temperatures. The loaf is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9
For an extra touch, mix together 1 tablespoon of honey, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and a sprinkle of cinnamon to create a glaze. Once the loaf is cool, drizzle it over the top. You can also sprinkle some oats on top for added texture.
10
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Nutty & Moist Banana Oat Loaf?
It is a wholesome, heart-healthy loaf made with ripe bananas, ground oats, whole wheat flour, and fragrant spices, perfect for breakfast or snacks.
What type of flour is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of sifted whole wheat flour.
How many bananas are required for the loaf?
You will need 1 cup of mashed bananas, which is approximately 3 small or medium bananas.
At what temperature should I preheat my oven?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
While the recipe is listed as vegan-friendly in the tags, it contains an egg and honey. You can try substituting the egg with a flax egg and the honey with maple syrup to make it fully vegan.
What size loaf pan should I use?
You can use an 8x5, 8x4, or 8x3 inch loaf pan for this recipe.
How long does it take to bake the banana oat loaf?
The baking time is approximately 45-55 minutes, though you should check it after 40 minutes.
How do I know when the loaf is fully cooked?
The loaf is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
What spices are included in the batter?
This recipe features a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for a fragrant flavor profile.
What is the purpose of ground flax seeds in this loaf?
Ground flax seeds add nutritional value, including fiber and healthy fats, and help contribute to the 'nutty' profile of the bread.
Is there a glaze for this banana loaf?
Yes, you can create an optional glaze by mixing 1 tablespoon of honey, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Why is unsweetened applesauce used in the recipe?
Unsweetened applesauce is used to add moisture to the loaf without the need for excessive oil or butter, keeping it heart-healthy.
Are raisins required for this recipe?
No, the 1/2 cup of organic raisins is optional and adds an extra burst of sweetness and texture if desired.
Should I mix the wet and dry ingredients all at once?
No, you should mix the dry ingredients and wet ingredients in separate bowls first, then gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.
What happens if I over-mix the batter?
Over-mixing the batter can negatively affect the texture of the loaf, making it less light and moist.
Does this recipe contain refined sugar?
The recipe uses 1/3 cup of sugar and 2 tablespoons of honey for sweetness.
How do I prepare the oats for this loaf?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of ground rolled oats. You can pulse rolled oats in a blender or food processor to achieve this consistency.
Can I add extra texture to the top of the loaf?
Yes, after applying the glaze, you can sprinkle some additional oats on top for added texture.
How should I cool the loaf?
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Is this recipe good for children?
Yes, it is a nutrient-rich snack or breakfast option that provides a balance of taste and nutrition for the whole family.
Can I use more cinnamon?
Yes, the recipe suggests 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or more to taste.
Is salt necessary in this recipe?
The recipe uses a small pinch of salt to help balance and enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.
What kind of honey should I use?
Any standard honey will work for the 2 tablespoons required in the batter and the additional tablespoon for the glaze.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 16 ingredients used in this Nutty & Moist Banana Oat Loaf.
Can I use a potato masher for the bananas?
Yes, a potato masher or a fork is recommended to mash the bananas until they are smooth.
What leavening agents are used?
The recipe uses both 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1 teaspoon of baking soda.
When should I add the raisins?
Fold in the organic raisins carefully after the wet and dry ingredients have been just combined.
Should the loaf pan be greased?
Yes, ensure you pour the batter into a greased loaf pan to prevent sticking.
Is this bread suitable for a heart-healthy diet?
Yes, it uses whole wheat flour, oats, flax seeds, and applesauce, which are common components of heart-healthy baking.
Can I eat this for breakfast?
Absolutely, this loaf is designed to be a great heart-healthy treat to start your day right.