Craving a delicious and wholesome treat? This Zucchini Banana Oat Loaf is a fantastic way to enjoy healthy banana oat baked goods. You’ll love how moist and flavorful this loaf is, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Ripe Bananas: Essential for sweetness and moisture.
- Oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats. Quick oats can work but may change the texture slightly.
- Shredded Zucchini: Don’t skip it! It adds moisture and nutrients without altering the taste.
- Maple Syrup: For natural sweetness. You can use honey or agave nectar as alternatives.
- Eggs: Binds everything together. Flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) can be used for a vegan option.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- ¾ cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 medium bananas)
- ½ cup shredded zucchini (lightly squeezed to remove excess water)
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Mix-ins:
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ½ cup chocolate chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 45-55 minutes
- Total time: 60-70 minutes
- Servings: 8-10 slices
- Tools needed: Loaf pan, mixing bowls, whisk, grater.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare Your 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. This prevents sticking and ensures a perfect loaf.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined. This ensures even distribution of your leavening agents.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the shredded zucchini, applesauce, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk these wet ingredients together until they are fully incorporated.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your loaf tough.
5. Fold in Optional Mix-ins
If you’re using walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips, gently fold them into the batter now. Distribute them evenly throughout the mixture. This adds an extra layer of flavor and texture to your healthy banana oat baked goods.
6. Bake Your Loaf
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the loaf cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious Zucchini Banana Oat Loaf!
Variation Ideas
- Add a ½ cup of blueberries or raspberries to the batter.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of chia seeds or flax seeds for extra nutrients.
- Top with a sprinkle of brown sugar or chopped nuts before baking for a crunchy crust.
- Include a dash of nutmeg or ginger for a warmer spice profile.
Storage Instructions
Store your Zucchini Banana Oat Loaf at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen slices overnight in the refrigerator or microwave briefly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen zucchini?
Yes, but thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible before adding it to the batter.
What kind of oats should I use?
Old-fashioned rolled oats are best for texture, but quick oats can be used in a pinch. Steel-cut oats are not recommended.
Why is my loaf dry?
Ensure you’re measuring your ingredients accurately, especially the wet ones. Overbaking can also lead to a dry loaf.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use certified gluten-free rolled oats and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
How do I know if my bananas are ripe enough?
They should have plenty of brown spots and be easy to mash. The riper they are, the sweeter your loaf will be.
Can I bake this as muffins instead?
Absolutely! Pour the batter into a greased muffin tin and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
