Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm slice of banana bread fresh from the oven. The sweet aroma wafting through the kitchen as it bakes is enough to make anyone feel at home. This Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread takes your classic banana bread recipe up a notch by using extra virgin olive oil for richness and honey for natural sweetness. It’s moist, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a perfect snack or breakfast option. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your countertop. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household!
Why It Works Every Time
What sets this Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread apart is its unique combination of ingredients that work harmoniously to create a deliciously moist and tender loaf. The use of extra virgin olive oil not only adds a subtle flavor but also keeps the bread incredibly moist. Honey brings a natural sweetness that complements the bananas beautifully, while the addition of walnuts and dark chocolate chips adds texture and richness. The result? A banana bread that’s not just good but truly unforgettable.
The Ingredient Lineup
To create this delicious Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 3 overripe bananas, peeled and mashed with a potato masher
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3/4 cup honey
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon real vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups white whole-wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped
- 1/2 cup clean eating dark chocolate chips
Each component plays a vital role in delivering the perfect flavor and texture for this Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread.
Cook’s Kit
Before you get started, make sure you have these essential tools on hand:
- Mixing bowls: For combining your wet and dry ingredients.
- Potato masher: Perfect for mashing bananas to a smooth consistency.
- Loaf pan: A standard 9×5-inch pan works well for this recipe.
- Whisk: To mix your wet ingredients thoroughly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for baking success.
Having the right tools makes the process smoother and more enjoyable!
Mastering Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread: How-To
Ready to bake? Here’s how to make your Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread step-by-step:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan with a little olive oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, use the potato masher to mash the three overripe bananas until smooth. The more overripe the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be!
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Add the extra virgin olive oil, honey, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk everything together until well combined and smooth.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the white whole-wheat flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and spices.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix; you want to combine them until just incorporated.
Step 6: Fold in the Goodies
Gently fold in the coarsely chopped walnuts and dark chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly dispersed throughout the batter.
Step 7: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a 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 Enjoy
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. Enjoy your Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread warm or at room temperature!
Customize for Your Needs
This Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to customize it to fit your taste:
- Add spices: Incorporate nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor profile.
- Use different nuts: Pecans or almonds can be great alternatives to walnuts.
- Add fruits: Diced apples or raisins can add a delightful twist.
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute the white whole-wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own!
Notes on Ingredients
The choice of ingredients is key to achieving the best Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread. Here are some notes to keep in mind:
- Bananas: Always use overripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a rich flavor; however, you can use light olive oil for a milder taste.
- Honey: A good quality honey will enhance the flavor of the bread. Feel free to use a different liquid sweetener if desired.
- Flour: White whole-wheat flour provides a nutty flavor while keeping the bread light.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To keep your Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread fresh and delicious, follow these tips:
Once cooled, store your 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 store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze individual slices or the whole loaf for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm it up in the oven for a few minutes!
Your Top Questions
Can I use regular bananas instead of overripe ones?
While you can use regular bananas, overripe bananas provide the best flavor and natural sweetness for this Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread. Aim for bananas with brown spots for optimal results!
Can I substitute the honey with another sweetener?
Yes, you can replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar if you prefer. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and moisture level of the bread.
Is it necessary to add nuts and chocolate chips?
No, it’s entirely up to your preference! You can omit the nuts and chocolate chips or substitute them with other mix-ins like dried fruit or seeds.
How can I tell when the banana bread is done baking?
The best way to check is to insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, the bread is done. If it has wet batter on it, continue baking for a few more minutes.
See You at the Table
This Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, perfectly suited for any time of day. Whether enjoyed as a cozy breakfast or a sweet snack, it brings warmth and a touch of sweetness to your table. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor every bite of this delicious treat. Happy baking!
Olive Oil Honey Banana Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan with a little olive oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, use the potato masher to mash the three overripe bananas until smooth.
- Add the extra virgin olive oil, honey, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk everything together until well combined and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the white whole-wheat flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently.
- Gently fold in the coarsely chopped walnuts and dark chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- 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
- Use overripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Extra virgin olive oil adds richness; consider light olive oil for a milder taste.
- Wrap cooled bread in plastic wrap for storage up to a week in the refrigerator.
