Craving a comforting and wholesome treat? You can easily bake a delicious Classic Walnut Banana Oat Bread that’s a perfect example of a healthy banana oat baked good. This recipe is simple to follow and results in a moist, flavorful loaf everyone will love.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Ripe Bananas: Essential for sweetness and moisture. Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor.
- Old-Fashioned Oats: Adds texture and fiber. Quick oats can be used in a pinch, but the texture will be slightly different.
- Walnuts: Provides a delightful crunch. Pecans or almonds are good alternatives.
- Maple Syrup: Natural sweetener. Honey can be substituted.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Adds a hearty touch. All-purpose flour works if you prefer a lighter texture.
Ingredients
- 2 large very ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Servings: 10 slices
- Tools Needed: Large mixing bowl, loaf pan (9×5 inch), whisk, spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until mostly smooth. Stir in the maple syrup, applesauce, vanilla extract, and the egg. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, old-fashioned oats, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps.
3. Mix Everything Together
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your bread tough. Fold in the chopped walnuts.
4. Bake Your Bread
Pour the batter into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variation Ideas
- Chocolate Chip: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips with the walnuts.
- Dried Fruit: Incorporate 1/4 cup of raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness.
- Spiced: Boost the cinnamon and add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a warmer flavor.
- Seed Blend: Mix in a tablespoon of chia seeds or flax seeds for added nutrition.
Storage Instructions
You can store your Classic Walnut Banana Oat Bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen slices at room temperature or gently warm them in a microwave or toaster oven.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What kind of bananas should you use?
Always use very ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. These are sweeter and easier to mash.
Can you make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose baking blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum. Use certified gluten-free oats.
Why is your banana bread dry?
Overmixing the batter or baking it for too long can lead to dry bread. Mix until just combined and check for doneness with a toothpick.
Can you reduce the sugar?
You can slightly reduce the maple syrup, but it might affect the moisture and overall sweetness. The ripe bananas provide natural sweetness.
How do you prevent the walnuts from sinking?
Toss the walnuts with a teaspoon of flour before adding them to the batter. This helps them stay suspended throughout the bread.
Can you bake this in muffins?
Yes, you can bake this batter as muffins. Fill muffin tins about two-thirds full and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
