Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread

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There’s something incredibly comforting about the scent of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen, especially when that bread is infused with the sweet, warm flavors of ripe bananas and honey. This Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread is not only a delightful treat but also a healthier alternative to traditional banana bread, thanks to the use of extra virgin olive oil and honey. The moist texture paired with the richness of walnuts and dark chocolate chips makes this bread a must-try. As you gather your ingredients, prepare to be amazed at how easy it is to create a baked good that tastes as good as it feels.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread deserves a permanent spot in your baking repertoire for several reasons. Firstly, the combination of olive oil and honey provides a unique flavor profile that enhances the natural sweetness of the bananas. Secondly, the use of white whole-wheat flour adds a nutritious twist while keeping the texture light and fluffy. Lastly, it’s incredibly versatile—enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert! With its easy preparation and delicious results, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite.

What to Buy

To make this Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 overripe bananas: Ensure they are peeled and mashed for optimal sweetness.
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil: Use a high-quality oil for the best flavor.
• 3/4 cup honey: This will add natural sweetness and moisture.
• 1 large egg: Acts as a binder and adds richness.
• 1 teaspoon real vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 1/2 cups white whole-wheat flour: For a healthier alternative to all-purpose flour.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise.
• 1/8 teaspoon kosher or sea salt: Balances the sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice.
• 1/2 cup walnuts: Coarsely chopped for a delightful crunch.
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips: Use clean eating varieties for a healthier twist.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before diving into the baking process, make sure you have the following gear:

• Mixing bowl: For combining your wet and dry ingredients.
• Potato masher: Perfect for mashing the bananas smoothly.
• Loaf pan: A standard 9×5 inch pan works best.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
• Spatula: To fold ingredients together without overmixing.
• Oven mitts: For safely removing your hot bread from the oven.

Cook Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread Like This

Follow these simple steps to create your Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your loaf pan lightly with olive oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

Using a potato masher, mash the 3 overripe bananas in a mixing bowl until smooth. You want them to be creamy with no large chunks remaining.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

To the mashed bananas, add the 1/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 3/4 cup of honey, 1 beaten large egg, and 1 teaspoon of real vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the 1 1/2 cups of white whole-wheat flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/8 teaspoon of kosher or sea salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Step 6: Fold in Walnuts and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the 1/2 cup of coarsely chopped walnuts and the 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with the spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

In-Season Flavor Ideas

To switch things up or enhance your Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread, consider these in-season flavor ideas:

• Substitute some of the flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor.
• Add 1/2 cup of shredded zucchini for extra moisture and nutrients.
• Incorporate spices such as nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal twist.
• Mix in dried fruit like raisins or cranberries for added texture and sweetness.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

Even the most seasoned bakers can stumble when it comes to banana bread. Here are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

• Using bananas that aren’t ripe enough can lead to a less sweet and flavorful bread.
• Overmixing the batter can result in a dense loaf rather than a light and fluffy one.
• Not checking for doneness can leave you with underbaked or overbaked bread. Always use a toothpick to test!
• Skipping the cooling step before slicing can cause the bread to crumble. Patience is key!

Storage Pro Tips

To keep your Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it up.

Common Qs About Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread

Can I use regular olive oil instead of extra virgin?

Yes, you can use regular olive oil, but extra virgin olive oil provides a richer flavor and higher quality.

Can I replace the honey with another sweetener?

Absolutely! Maple syrup, agave nectar, or coconut sugar can be used as alternatives, though the flavor may vary slightly.

Is there a way to make this banana bread vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use a plant-based honey alternative.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with ingredients like shredded coconut, chocolate chunks, or even peanut butter chips for a unique twist.

For an extra special treat, consider serving your Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread with:

In Closing

This Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create something delicious and wholesome in your own kitchen. With its simple ingredients and straightforward process, you can whip up a loaf that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it warm from the oven or as a midday snack, each bite is sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart. So gather those ripe bananas, unleash your inner baker, and indulge in a slice of this delightful bread!

Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread

This Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread is a healthier twist on a classic! Infused with ripe bananas and honey, it’s moist and delicious.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Banana Bread:

• 3 overripe bananas peeled and mashed
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil high-quality
• 3/4 cup honey for sweetness and moisture
• 1 large egg beaten
• 1 teaspoon real vanilla extract to enhance flavor
• 1 1/2 cups white whole-wheat flour for a healthier alternative
• 1 teaspoon baking soda to help bread rise
• 1/8 teaspoon kosher or sea salt to balance sweetness
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon for warmth and spice
• 1/2 cup walnuts coarsely chopped
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips clean eating varieties

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Potato masher
• Loaf pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Oven mitts

Method

 

Instructions:

1. Step 1: Preheat the Oven

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your loaf pan lightly with olive oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Step 2: Mash the Bananas

   Using a potato masher, mash the 3 overripe bananas in a mixing bowl until smooth. You want them to be creamy with no large chunks remaining.
3. Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

   To the mashed bananas, add the 1/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 3/4 cup of honey, 1 beaten large egg, and 1 teaspoon of real vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
4. Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

   In another bowl, whisk together the 1 1/2 cups of white whole-wheat flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/8 teaspoon of kosher or sea salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
5. Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

   Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
6. Step 6: Fold in Walnuts and Chocolate Chips

   Gently fold in the 1/2 cup of coarsely chopped walnuts and the 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Step 7: Pour and Bake

   Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with the spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Step 8: Cool and Serve

   Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw at room temperature or microwave briefly to warm up.