The Perfect Seeded Banana Bread: A Nutritious Twist to a Classic Favorite
Banana bread is a beloved classic, perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. But what if we could make it even better? By incorporating a variety of nutrient-packed seeds, this seeded banana bread recipe takes the traditional loaf to a whole new level. Packed with sunflower, pumpkin, flax, and sesame seeds, this version offers a delightful crunch in every bite while adding a boost of fiber, protein, and healthy fats. Whether you’re looking for a healthy treat or a way to use up ripe bananas, this recipe is the perfect solution.
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
For the Seed Mix:
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
- 2 tablespoons flax seeds
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mash the Bananas: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork or potato masher until they form a smooth puree. This will ensure the bread has a moist, tender texture.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the melted butter to the mashed bananas and stir until combined. Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is evenly incorporated.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the baking soda, salt, all-purpose flour, and whole wheat flour. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, stirring gently to avoid overmixing.
- Prepare the Seed Mix: In a small bowl, combine the sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, and sesame seeds. Set aside 1–2 tablespoons of the seed mix for topping, and fold the rest into the batter.
- Assemble the Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the reserved seed mix on top of the batter for a decorative and crunchy finish.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips for Success
- Banana Ripeness: The riper the bananas, the better the flavor and sweetness of your bread. Look for bananas with brown spots for the best results.
- Customize the Seeds: Feel free to experiment with your favorite seeds or nuts. Chia seeds or chopped walnuts can be great additions.
- Storage: Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
This seeded banana bread is more than just a treat—it’s a wholesome, versatile snack that’s easy to make and full of flavor. The combination of soft banana sweetness and the crunch of nutrient-dense seeds makes it a standout recipe for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it warm from the oven or as a quick grab-and-go breakfast, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So, why wait? Gather your ingredients and start baking this delicious twist on a classic banana bread today!