Introduction
There’s something incredibly heartwarming about a freshly baked loaf of banana bread, especially when it’s infused with the cozy warmth of cinnamon. This Whole Wheat Cinnamon Crunch Banana Bread is not just a delicious treat but also a wholesome option that brings a touch of health to your sweet cravings.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/4 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: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, melted coconut oil, brown sugar, and maple syrup. Mix until well combined.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the banana mixture, and stir until fully incorporated.
- In another bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and whole wheat flour.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. If using, fold in the chopped nuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly over the top of the batter.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
- For added flavor, try using a touch of nutmeg alongside the cinnamon.
- If you prefer a sweeter loaf, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar or maple syrup.
- This banana bread freezes well; simply wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container.
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the art of banana bread is all about balancing the wet and dry ingredients to achieve that perfect, moist texture. The key is to mix until just combined to keep the bread fluffy and light.
FAQ
- Can I substitute the whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour? Yes, you can use all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.
- What can I use instead of eggs? You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce.
- How can I store the banana bread? Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.
Conclusion
This Whole Wheat Cinnamon Crunch Banana Bread is sure to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire. With its rich banana flavor and delightful cinnamon topping, it’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a cozy dessert. Happy baking!