Whole-wheat Banana Bread

Whole-wheat Banana Bread Recipe from USA with Pecans

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 2 loaves

Introduction

Whole-wheat banana bread is a delicious and nutritious treat that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. This recipe combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the nuttiness of whole wheat flour and pecans, creating a flavorful and satisfying bread.

History

Banana bread has been a popular recipe in American households since the early 20th century. It gained popularity during the Great Depression when resourceful cooks found ways to use overripe bananas that would otherwise go to waste. The addition of whole wheat flour adds a healthy twist to this classic recipe.

Ingredients

7 very ripe bananas
1.13 cups raw honey
0.33 cups canola oil
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
3 cups whole wheat pastry flour
2.5 tsp baking soda
0.25 tsp salt
1.5 cups chopped pecans

How to prepare

Mash the bananas, then mix them with the honey, canola oil, and vanilla extract.
Sift the pastry flour, baking soda, and salt together, then add the nuts.
Blend the two mixtures together and divide the resulting mixture into 2 lightly oiled loaf pans.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 40 minutes.

Variations

Add chocolate chips or dried fruit for a sweeter twist.
Substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor.
Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey for a vegan option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.

- Sifting the dry ingredients together helps to ensure a light and fluffy texture.

- Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense and tough bread.

- Adding chopped pecans provides a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the bread.

Serving Suggestions

Whole-wheat banana bread can be enjoyed on its own or with a spread of nut butter or cream cheese. It pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea for a satisfying snack.

Cooking Techniques

Mash the bananas well for a smoother texture.

- Sift the dry ingredients to ensure a light and fluffy bread.

- Divide the batter evenly between the loaf pans for even baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use all-purpose flour instead of whole pastry flour if desired.

- Substitute the canola oil with melted butter or coconut oil for a different flavor.

- Omit the nuts for a nut-free version of the bread.

Make Ahead Tips

Whole-wheat banana bread can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the banana bread and arrange it on a serving platter. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a glaze for a decorative touch. Garnish with fresh banana slices or chopped nuts for added flair.

Pairing Recommendations

Whole-wheat banana bread pairs well with a variety of beverages, such as coffee, tea, or milk. It also goes well with fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced breakfast or snack.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of whole-wheat banana bread contains approximately 300 calories. This makes it a satisfying and filling snack or breakfast option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of whole-wheat banana bread contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy and are essential for fueling daily activities.

Fats

Each serving of whole-wheat banana bread contains approximately 10 grams of fat. The fats in this recipe come from the canola oil and pecans, which provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.

Proteins

Each serving of whole-wheat banana bread contains approximately 5 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

Whole-wheat banana bread is a good source of potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. Potassium helps to regulate blood pressure, vitamin C boosts the immune system, and vitamin B6 supports brain function.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts (pecans) and wheat (whole pastry flour), which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before consuming.

Summary

Whole-wheat banana bread is a nutritious and delicious treat that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great option for a healthy breakfast or snack.

Summary

Whole-wheat banana bread is a delicious and nutritious treat that is easy to make and perfect for breakfast or as a snack. With the sweetness of ripe bananas and the nuttiness of whole wheat flour and pecans, this bread is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy a slice with your favorite beverage for a satisfying and wholesome treat.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I discovered this recipe for Whole-wheat Banana Bread. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in the countryside. My grandmother, who was an excellent cook and baker, had invited me into her kitchen to help her bake some delicious treats.

As we sifted the flour and mashed the ripe bananas, my grandmother began to tell me the story behind this special recipe. She explained that she had learned it from her own mother, who had learned it from her mother before her. The recipe had been passed down through the generations, with each woman adding her own twist to make it unique.

My grandmother told me that the key to making the perfect Whole-wheat Banana Bread was to use only the ripest bananas, as they added a natural sweetness and moisture to the bread. She also stressed the importance of using whole-wheat flour, as it gave the bread a nutty flavor and a hearty texture.

As we mixed the ingredients together, the kitchen filled with the warm scent of cinnamon and vanilla. My grandmother smiled as she added a handful of chopped walnuts to the batter, explaining that they would give the bread a delicious crunch.

After an hour in the oven, the Whole-wheat Banana Bread emerged golden and fragrant. My grandmother sliced a thick piece for each of us to enjoy, and as we savored the moist and tender bread, she shared more stories of her childhood and the traditions of our family.

From that day on, Whole-wheat Banana Bread became a staple in our household. My grandmother would bake a loaf every week, and we would enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert after dinner. The recipe became a symbol of family and tradition, connecting us to our past and to each other.

Over the years, I have continued to make Whole-wheat Banana Bread for my own family. I have added my own touches to the recipe, experimenting with different spices and mix-ins to create new variations. But no matter how much I change it, the bread always reminds me of my grandmother and the bond we shared in her cozy kitchen.

As I pass the recipe down to my children and grandchildren, I am filled with gratitude for the gift of cooking and baking that my grandmother gave me. The simple act of making Whole-wheat Banana Bread connects me to my roots and to the women who came before me, reminding me of the power of tradition and the love that is passed down through generations.

And so, every time I take a bite of this delicious bread, I am filled with memories of my grandmother and the joy of creating something special with my own hands. Whole-wheat Banana Bread will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the love and connection that binds my family together.