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Healthy Chocolate Banana Bread

A delightful twist on classic banana bread made healthier with wholesome ingredients and naturally sweetened with ripe bananas.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

Wet Ingredients
  • 3 pieces ripe bananas The riper, the better for natural sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil Can be substituted with unsweetened applesauce for lighter texture.
  • 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup Choose based on your preference for sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances flavor.
  • 2 pieces eggs Bind the ingredients together.
Dry Ingredients
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda Leavening agent.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Balances sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder Adds rich chocolate flavor.
  • 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour Gives nuttiness and texture.
Optional Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips For extra chocolatey goodness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, mash the 3 ripe bananas until smooth.
  3. Add in the melted coconut oil, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and eggs. Whisk until combined.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, cocoa powder, and whole wheat flour until evenly mixed.
  5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Avoid over-mixing as this could lead to a dense bread.
  6. If you’re using chocolate chips, stir them in gently.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
  8. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Slice and enjoy your healthy chocolate banana bread warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for a week. Freeze individual slices for up to 3 months. Reheat in microwave for 10-15 seconds or slightly toast.