Whole Meal Banana Bread
A hearty whole meal banana bread with rich banana flavor and crunchy walnuts, perfect for breakfast, snack, or teatime, appealing to banana lovers and baking enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream margarine and brown sugar together.
- Add beaten eggs to the creamed mixture.
- Sift flour with baking powder.
- Add the flour mixture alternately with mashed bananas to the creamed mixture.
- Pour the batter into a loaf tin.
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the top as desired.
- Bake for approximately 1 hour until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added moisture, consider using ripe bananas with brown spots. If you prefer a less sweet bread, reduce the brown sugar by 1/4 cup. You can substitute half of the whole meal flour with all-purpose flour for a lighter texture. Feel free to mix in chocolate chips or dried fruits for extra flavor. Alternatively, swap margarine for melted coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for a delightful breakfast or snack. This banana bread pairs beautifully with a cup of tea, making it a perfect companion to an afternoon break. For a decadent treat, enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a slice of Irish Tea Cake for a sweet platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, slice and warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast slices until golden brown.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Whole Meal Banana Bread contains roughly 381 calories, with 6g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, frozen bananas work well! Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing. The added moisture can enhance the flavor and texture of your banana bread.
What can I use instead of walnuts?
If you're not a fan of walnuts, you can substitute them with pecans, almonds, or even omit them entirely. For a nut-free version, consider adding chocolate chips or a sprinkle of cinnamon instead.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make gluten-free banana bread, substitute the whole meal flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the baking powder is also gluten-free, and you can add a tablespoon of ground flaxseed for added texture and nutrition.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).