Healthy Banana Bread

We all know banana bread is the key to everyone's heart. It is perfectly sweet, flavorful and filling. I have shifted into more healthy recipes and this banana bread is on repeat at our house. I love how the wholesome ingredients don't detract from the flavor. My family gobbles this right up.

It bakes perfectly every single time and I wouldn't change a thing!

Healthy Banana Bread

Makes 1 loaf

1/3 cup melted coconut oil or extra-virgin olive oil 

1/2 cup maple syrup or honey (I do half and half)

2 eggs

1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 3 medium bananas)

1/4 cup milk of choice

1 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon, plus more to swirl on top

1 3/4 cups white whole wheat flour 

1/2 cup mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, optional

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with a half sheet of parchment paper so ends are sticking up. Set aside.

2. In a large bowl, beat the oil and honey together with a whisk. Add the eggs and beat well, then whisk in the mashed bananas and milk.

3. Add the baking soda, vanilla, salt and cinnamon and whisk to blend. Stir in the flour, just until combined. If you’re adding any mix-ins, gently fold them in.

4. Pour the batter into your greased loaf pan and sprinkle lightly with cinnamon. If desired, run the tip of a knife across the batter in a zig-zag pattern.

5. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the loaf pan for at least 10 minutes. Carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool before slicing.

Adapted from Cookie and Kate