Introduction
Welcome to the wonderful world of banana bread, where warm, comforting aromas fill your kitchen and every slice is a little piece of heaven! This Whole Wheat Cinnamon Crunch Banana Bread is not just any banana bread; it’s infused with the rich, delightful flavors of cinnamon and has a crunchy oat topping that will make your taste buds sing. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or just because! Let’s dive into this wholesome recipe that’s easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 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 cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup rolled oats (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon 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 to ensure easy release after baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with the melted coconut oil, stirring until they beautifully blend together.
- Add in the brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, whisking the mixture until it’s all harmonious and well combined.
- Sprinkle in the baking soda, salt, and cinnamon, stirring just until these aromatic ingredients are incorporated.
- Slowly add the whole wheat flour to the mixture, stirring gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix to ensure a tender loaf.
- If you’re a walnut lover, fold in the chopped walnuts for that extra crunch and flavor.
- Pour the fragrant batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- In a small bowl, mix the rolled oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the topping, then sprinkle this crunchy mixture evenly over the batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling the perfect bake!
- Once baked, allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the tantalizing aroma filling your kitchen!
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, use very ripe bananas as they provide natural sweetness and moisture. If you like additional texture or flavor, feel free to experiment by adding chocolates chips or dried fruits. This banana bread also freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy a slice any time you crave a sweet treat!
Cooking Techniques
The heart of this recipe lies in the gentle mixing of the batter. Overmixing can lead to a tough loaf, so stir just until you see the flour incorporated. Additionally, letting the banana bread cool completely before slicing will help retain its moisture and make each slice easier to cut. A serrated knife works wonders for this!
FAQ
Q: Can I substitute the coconut oil?
A: Yes, you can use vegetable oil or melted butter if you prefer a different flavor.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Q: Can I make this banana bread vegan?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a delicious vegan option.
Conclusion
This Whole Wheat Cinnamon Crunch Banana Bread is a delightful combination of wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors. Its tender crumb, warm spices, and crunchy topping will surely become a favorite in your home. Slice it up, share it with friends and family, and savor every delicious bite. Baking doesn’t just create food; it creates memories and warmth in our hearts. Enjoy!