Introduction
There’s something perfectly comforting about a warm slice of banana bread fresh out of the oven. This Whole Wheat Cinnamon Crunch Banana Bread combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with a delightful crunch on top, making it an irresistible treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack. With wholesome ingredients and a rich cinnamon flavor, this banana bread is not only delicious but also offers a healthier twist with the use of whole wheat flour. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup sugar (for topping)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (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 (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth, allowing their sweet aroma to fill your kitchen.
- Stir in the melted coconut oil until the mixture is well combined, creating a luscious base.
- Add in the brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is smooth and well incorporated.
- Sprinkle in the baking soda, a pinch of salt, and ground cinnamon, stirring to blend these lovely flavors together.
- Gradually fold in the whole wheat flour until just combined—be careful not to overmix! You want a tender loaf.
- If you’re using them, fold in the chopped nuts for an added crunch that complements the soft bread perfectly.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and ground cinnamon for the topping; sprinkle it evenly over the batter to create a sweet, crunchy crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma will be heavenly!
- 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
Make sure your bananas are well-ripened; the black spots on their skin mean they’re packed with flavor and sweetness. Feel free to experiment with different nuts or even chocolate chips for a twist! This banana bread also freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy it at a later date. Just wrap slices in aluminum foil or place in an airtight container, and it will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Cooking Techniques
When mashing bananas, a fork works perfectly to create a smooth consistency, but you can also use a potato masher for a chunky texture if that’s what you prefer. Remember to mix your dry ingredients separately first before adding them to your wet ingredients—this helps ensure even distribution and prevents overmixing.
FAQ
Can I substitute the coconut oil? Yes, you can use melted butter or another neutral oil if you prefer.
What can I use if I don’t have whole wheat flour? You may substitute all-purpose flour, but the bread will be less wholesome.
How can I tell when my banana bread is done? A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached, but not wet batter.
Conclusion
Your kitchen is about to be filled with the delightful scents of banana and warm spices. This Whole Wheat Cinnamon Crunch Banana Bread is sure to become a favorite, offering both comfort and nourishment in each bite. Whether you enjoy it plain, slathered with butter, or toasted with a hint of jam, it’s a treat you’ll want to share—if you can resist the temptation to eat it all yourself!