Craving a wholesome treat? This Buckwheat Apple Cinnamon Banana Bread offers a delicious twist on healthy banana bread recipes, perfect for a satisfying breakfast or snack. It’s simple to bake and packed with comforting flavors.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Ripe Bananas: Essential for sweetness and moisture.
- Buckwheat Flour: Provides a nutty flavor and wholesome texture. You can substitute with whole wheat flour if buckwheat isn’t available.
- Applesauce: Adds natural sweetness and moisture without extra oil.
- Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener. Agave nectar works as well.
- Cinnamon: Brings warmth and spice.
Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups mashed ripe bananas (about 4 large)
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups buckwheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and finely diced
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 10-12 slices
- Tools Needed: Large mixing bowl, loaf pan (9×5 inch), whisk, spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash your ripe bananas until smooth. Stir in the applesauce, maple syrup, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the buckwheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps.
4. Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your bread tough.
5. Fold in Apples
Gently fold the finely diced apple into the batter. Distribute the apple pieces evenly throughout the mixture.
6. Bake Your Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy your delicious healthy banana bread.
Variation Ideas:
- Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Stir in ½ cup of raisins or dried cranberries with the apples.
- Sprinkle a tablespoon of oats on top before baking for a rustic look.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for more complex flavor.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Buckwheat Apple Cinnamon Banana Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. This healthy banana bread also freezes well; wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently warm in a toaster.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I use frozen bananas?
A: Yes, just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
Q: Is buckwheat flour gluten-free?
A: Yes, buckwheat is naturally gluten-free, making this a great option for those with sensitivities.
Q: Can I reduce the maple syrup?
A: You can reduce it slightly, but it might affect the moisture and sweetness.
Q: Why are my bananas not ripe enough?
A: For best results, use very ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots, as they provide natural sweetness and moisture.
Q: How do I know when the banana bread is done?
A: Insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready.
Q: Can I make muffins instead?
A: Yes, divide the batter into a greased muffin tin and bake for about 20-25 minutes.
