Healthy Banana Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar 300 g
- ½ cup salted butter, softened 113 g
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 3 medium very ripe bananas, mashed (270 g, about 1.25 cups)
- 3 cups sprouted whole wheat pastry flour, freshly milled or store-bought (360 g)
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup milk 240 g
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan, a 9 x 5 x 2.5-inch loaf pan, OR four 5.5 x 3.25 x 2.25-inch mini loaf pans, or line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes, using an electric mixer or wooden spoon.
- Mix in eggs and mashed bananas until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together sprouted whole wheat pastry flour, salt, and baking soda.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, alternating with milk, stirring until just combined.
- Pour batter into prepared pan(s). For a single loaf, fill to ~⅔ full. For mini loaves, divide evenly among four 5.5 x 3.25 x 2.25-inch pans (each ~¼ of batter).
- Bake according to pan size:
- 9 x 5 x 3-inch or 9 x 5 x 2.5-inch pan: 60-70 minutes
- Four 5.5 x 3.25 x 2.25-inch pans: 40-50 minutes
- Check doneness with a toothpick; if not clean, bake in 5-minute increments.
- Let cool in pan(s) for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Flour Options: Both freshly milled and store-bought sprouted whole wheat pastry flour (e.g., One Degree Organics, King Arthur) work well. Weigh flour (360 g) for precision, or spoon and level if using cups to avoid packing.
Pan Sizes: A 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan is ideal for a single loaf with room to rise. A 9 x 5 x 2.5-inch pan works but may be fuller. Four 5.5 x 3.25 x 2.25-inch mini pans have been tested and are perfect for gifting or portion control.
Bananas: Use very ripe, almost black bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture. Weight (270 g) ensures consistency.
Milk: Whole milk adds richness, but 2% can be substituted at the same weight (240 g).
Customization: For added flavor, consider mixing in ½ cup (60 g) chopped walnuts or (85 g) dark chocolate chips.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Serving Tip: Slice and serve with butter or almond butter for a delicious treat.
Nutrition
Serving: 1slice
Servings: 12 slices
