Tropical Banana Bread Recipe

 

 Ingredients

Wet Ingredients:

2 large ripe bananas, mashed

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (a heart-healthy fat)

1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (adds moisture while reducing oil)

1/4 cup honey or pure maple syrup (a natural sweetener)

2 large eggs (or flax eggs for a vegan option)

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups almond flour (or spelt flour for added fiber)

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

A pinch of sea salt

Add-Ins:

3/4 cup fresh pineapple, diced (or canned in juice, drained)

1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional, for extra crunch)


Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with olive oil or line it with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, olive oil, applesauce, honey (or maple syrup), eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and sea salt.

4. Combine the Wet and Dry

Ingredients:

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the bread light.

5. Add Pineapple and Coconut:

Carefully fold in the diced pineapple, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts, if using.

6. Bake the Bread:

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool and Serve:

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy as a breakfast treat, snack, or light dessert!


Why This Recipe is Mediterranean-Friendly:

Healthy Fats: Extra virgin olive oil and nuts provide heart-healthy unsaturated fats.

Natural Sweeteners: Honey or maple syrup replaces refined sugar.

Fiber-Rich Flour: Almond or spelt flour adds a wholesome touch.

Nutrient-Dense Additions: Pineapple and coconut offer natural sweetness, vitamins, and antioxidants.

This tropical-inspired banana

bread is both delicious and nutritious—perfect for the Mediterranean diet! 🌴🍞

 

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