This healthy whole wheat banana nut bread is a delicious and guilt-free treat that's perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert. Made with clean eating ingredients, it's moist, flavorful, and packed with nutrients that will nourish your body and satisfy your taste buds.
This banana bread recipe is so easy, you won’t even need to break out your mixer. Mixing banana bread up in one bowl instead of using the mixer can be a quick and easy way to make a delicious treat. With just a fork or whisk, you can combine all the ingredients and create a moist and flavorful bread. Plus, there's less cleanup and fewer dishes to wash!
If you like this recipe, you may also like this Healthy Whole Wheat Bread Recipe made with Stone Ground Wheat Flour.
This healthy whole wheat banana nut bread is easy to make and can be enjoyed warm or cold, with a cup of coffee or tea. It's a tasty way to fuel your day and indulge in a sweet treat without compromising your health!
WHOLE WHEAT BANANA BREAD INGREDIENTS
The banana nut bread is made with whole wheat flour, which is a great source of fiber and complex carbohydrates that help regulate blood sugar levels and promote satiety. The bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture while adding potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6 to the recipe. The nuts dd crunch and healthy fats that support heart health and brain function.
WHITE WHOLE-WHEAT FLOUR
I use White Whole-Wheat Flour, but you can use any flour you like, such as gluten-free flour, white flour, or oat flour. My preference is not to use regular whole-wheat flour or stone-ground whole wheat flour for this recipe as it tends to produce a heavier, denser loaf of bread.
MAPLE SYRUP
To keep this bread clean, we use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, healthy coconut oil, and avoid artificial flavors and preservatives.
COCONUT OIL
When baking, I almost always use coconut oil. You can read more about the benefits of cooking with coconut oil here.
EGGS
Room temperature eggs break more easily, allowing the egg yolks to mix more evenly with the egg whites and other ingredients.
BANANAS
Bananas need to be very ripe. This helps them to mash easier and also makes them sweeter.
PECANS
I love pecans, and they will always be my go-to nut for baking, but you can switch them out for walnuts or any other nut you prefer. If you’re following a nut-free diet, sunflower seeds would be a great alternative.
SPICES
Cinnamon, vanilla, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
HOW LONG DOES BANANA BREAD LAST?
The shelf life of homemade banana bread can vary depending on a few factors, such as the ingredients used, how it was stored, and the humidity and temperature of the environment.
Typically, if stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, homemade banana bread can last for 2-3 days. If refrigerated, it can last for up to a week. If frozen, it can last for up to 3 months.
It's important to note that the texture and flavor of the bread may change over time, and it's best to use your own judgment when determining whether or not it's still good to eat. If the bread shows signs of mold, a sour smell, or an off taste, it should be discarded.
HOW TO FREEZE BANANA BREAD
Freezing homemade banana bread is a great way to preserve it for later consumption. Here are the steps to freeze banana bread:
- Allow the banana bread to cool completely at room temperature.
- Once cooled, wrap the banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
- Place the wrapped banana bread in a freezer-safe plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing it.
- Label the bag with the date and type of bread for easy identification later.
- Place the bag in the freezer, laying it flat if possible, so the bread freezes evenly.
- Frozen banana bread can last for up to three months in the freezer.
When you want to eat the frozen banana bread, simply take it out of the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours.
HEALTHY BANANA PECAN MUFFINS
This easy banana nut bread recipe is easily made into banana pecan muffins! Simply pour your batter into a muffin tin lined with muffin liners and bake. Reduce the baking time to about 15 minutes and check for doneness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Banana bread is the best food gift to give someone because it's easy to make, versatile, comforting, easy to transport, and customizable. It's a well-loved baked good that can be enjoyed any time of day and can evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia.
1. Use a toothpick or cake tester: Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean, with no wet batter sticking to it, the bread is done.
2. Check the color: The bread should be a deep golden-brown color when it's done.
3. Press the top of the bread: If the top of the bread springs back when you gently press it with your finger, it's done.
4. Use a thermometer: Insert an instant-read thermometer into the center of the bread. When the internal temperature reaches around 200°F (93°C), the bread is done.
Keep in mind that baking times can vary depending on factors such as your oven, the size of your loaf pan, and the ingredients you used. It's always a good idea to check the bread for doneness using one of these methods rather than relying solely on the baking time stated in the recipe.
Overripe bananas are a versatile ingredient that can be used in many recipes. One of the most popular recipes is banana bread, which is a moist and flavorful cake-like bread that is easy to make. The overripe bananas give it a sweet and fruity flavor that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Another delicious option is banana muffins, which can be made with nuts, chocolate chips, or blueberries to add extra flavor. Smoothies are also a great way to use overripe bananas, as they can be frozen and then blended with other fruits, yogurt, and milk for a healthy and delicious treat.
Whole wheat banana bread can be a healthier alternative to traditional banana bread because it is made with whole wheat flour, which contains more fiber, vitamins, and minerals than refined white flour.
More Healthy Whole Grain Breakfast Recipes
- Healthy Homemade Granola with Hemp Hearts
- Healthy Banana Blueberry Oatmeal Muffins
- Simple Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Banana Bread
- Ultimate Oat Flour Banana Bread
- Healthy Blueberry Oatmeal Breakfast Bars
📖 Recipe
Healthy Whole Wheat Banana Nut Bread
Ingredients
- ½ cup coconut oil melted and cooled
- ¾ cup maple syrup or honey
- 2 eggs room temperature
- 3 bananas very ripe and mashed
- 2 teaspoon vanilla
- 2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ¾ cup white whole-wheat flour
- 1 cup pecans chopped
Instructions
- Grease and line loaf pan with parchment paper and preheat oven to 350.
- Stir together mashed bananas, coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla, and eggs.
- Mix in dry ingredients being sure to not over mix.
- Fold in pecans.
- Pour into prepared loaf pan and bake at 350 for 50-60 minutes.
- Cool and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Nutritional Disclaimer
The nutritional information provided here is approximate and calculated using an online nutritional calculator. We strive to give you accurate information, but many factors can cause this data to vary widely. For more information, please read our full Nutritional Disclaimer.
Carlyn says
I love banana bread & this recipe is so simple. Already have most of the ingredients, so I’ll have to try it soon
Jessica says
Enjoy!
Gregory Halpen says
Looks so delicious! I bet the maple syrup and coconut oil add a delicious layer to your banana bread. I’m going to have to try that.
Jessica says
It's the best! Enjoy!
Amanda Marie says
I usually use walnuts because that's how my mom always made it, but I love the change to pecans!
Jessica says
Awesome! Enjoy!
Raquel says
So good - the addition of honey makes for a wonderful flavor!
Jessica says
So Yummy! I'm so happy you loved this banana bread recipe!
Kay says
Love the addition of pecans in this banana bread. Gives a great crunch!
Jessica says
I love nuts in my banana bread! I also feel like it keeps me fuller longer!
Saudia says
This looks so good! I can't wait to make this!!!
Jessica says
Thank you!!!
Addison says
Banana bread is my favorite thing to bake! This loaf has the perfect texture!
Jessica says
Thanks, Addison!
Elizabeth says
Such a fabulous recipe! So delicious!
Jessica says
Thank you so much!
Lisa says
Seriously delicious! I love the addition of pecans because...they make breads and desserts way yummier! Great recipe Jessica. 🙂
Jessica says
Thank you so much!
Ally says
Yum! This looks delicious!!
Jessica says
Thanks so much!
Nishtha says
I have tried making banana bread earlier but it was a huge disaster. Will try this recipe as well, hope it works this time 😀
Jessica says
That's the worst! Good luck and let me know if you have any questions.
Arianna says
We've got some bananas going brown at the moment, so I'll have to try this this weekend 🙂 Thanks for sharing!
Jessica says
You're welcome! Enjoy!
Beth says
Love love love banana bread.
Jessica says
So Good!
Kalu says
This looks amazing! Will definitely give it a try.
Jessica says
Thanks, Kalu! I hope you love it!
Misskorang says
One more delicious and healthy recipe to try with my kids. Thanks for this. I love it
Jessica says
My daughters love helping me bake too! Enjoy!!
Alicia says
Yum! This looks so good. Will be making!
Cindy Mom, the Lunch Lady says
My kids are always hit or miss with eating bananas when I buy them. Last week was a miss, so I ended up making your recipe Friday night. It is so delicious!!! Tender, not too sweet and baked up beautifully. Thank you so much for sharing!
Daphne says
Excited for this one- love the idea of the maple syrup!
Jessica says
Thanks, Daphne!
Gabriela says
Looks so fluffy and yummy.
Jessica says
Thanks, Gabriela! I'm so happy you love it!
Dusty says
This looks like an easy recipe & looks delicious. I love pecans too!
Jessica says
Hey, Dusty! I'm so happy you like this recipe!!
Sarah says
Made this yesterday and it is DELICIOUS
Rebecca says
I love banana bread and using maple syrup as well!! I feel it's so much healthier than the sugar, but I'm unfortunately allergic to pecans and coconut so I would have to leave those out. It looks delicious though!! 😀 It makes me wish I had already made it! Thank you so much for sharing!! 🙂
Jessica says
Hi, Rebecca. This bread is great with or without nuts. If you're not allergic to sunflower seeds or pepitas, they would be a great substitute. Thanks for your comments!
Katherine says
Great recipe! I’ve only used walnuts in the past, the pecans sounds great, and maple syrup! What a brilliant idea! Will have to try it out! Thanks for sharing!
Jessica says
Thanks, Katherine!
Angie says
I love banana bread! And I like to try out new recipes for me and my daughter. This one is delicious!
Jessica says
My girls love to help me bake and they most definitely love to eat this banana bread!
Stacy Boswell says
I love banana bread with pecans and appreciate that you chose some healthier oil and sugar swaps. I am excited to try your recipe!
Jessica says
Thanks, Stacy!?
Cassie says
I always love trying a new banana bread recipe, and your recipe looks great too! I love the added pecans as well. I used to never like them until my mom made banana bread with them, and the pecans added an extra kick of sweetness. Thank you for sharing this recipe!
Jessica says
Yes! We LOVE pecans around here! Thanks so much!!
Lottie says
Never thought of putting maple syrup in! Thanks for this recipe!
Jessica says
Thank you, Lottie!
Michelle says
Looks delicious! Love banana bread and white whole wheat flour.
Jessica says
Thanks, Michelle!
Lindsay says
Love that this recipe has pecans in it - they add such a yummy flavor and great crunch! Looks delish!
Jessica says
Yay! So happy you like it. And thanks for the kind words!
Alex says
My wife loves bananas. I think I'm going to surprise her with that recipe ☺️
Thank you for sharing, Jessica
Jessica says
You'll be the rockstar of the house for sure! I hope you both love it as much as we do.
Katie says
In our family we love banana bread! I can’t believe I’ve never thought about substituting the sugar for another sweetener. Definitely going to have to try this!
Jessica says
Thanks, Katie! I hope you love it!
Alyssa Hixenbaugh says
I love banana bread, and I always try to make it with healthier ingredients. I really like your recipe and the ingredients you use. Thanks for sharing! 🙂
Jeannie says
so good! I never run out of bananas and I haven’t bake banana bread for a while now 🙂 this is such a sweet easy treat I should make again
Alicia says
Yum! This looks so good!
Jessica says
Thank you!