Wholesome Banana Nut Breakfast Bread with Chia Seeds

As a passionate baker, I’ve discovered that the best way to start any morning is with the comforting aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through the kitchen. This nutrient-rich version of the classic favorite combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the wholesome goodness of whole wheat flour, heart-healthy walnuts, and superfood chia seeds. After countless test batches, I’ve perfected this recipe to create a breakfast bread that’s not only delicious but also packed with sustained energy for your busy mornings.

The Magic of Banana Bread History

Banana bread emerged during the Great Depression as a clever way to use overripe bananas instead of letting them go to waste. Today, I’ve reimagined this classic by incorporating modern superfood ingredients while maintaining its beloved comfort-food status. This recipe proves that healthy can indeed be heavenly.

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

• 2 large ripe bananas (about 1 cup/230g mashed)
• 1/3 cup (80ml) pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup (60ml) coconut oil, melted
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) pure vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) plant-based milk (if needed for moisture)

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup (120g) whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup (45g) rolled oats
• 1 tablespoon (15g) chia seeds
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped walnuts
• 1 teaspoon (5g) baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2g) ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon (1g) sea salt

Optional Topping

• 2 tablespoons rolled oats
• 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts
• 1 teaspoon chia seeds

Detailed Instructions

Preparation

1. I always start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking from the start.
2. Line a 9×5 inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease any exposed parts.

Creating the Batter

1. In a large bowl, I thoroughly mash the ripe bananas until they’re smooth and creamy. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
2. Add the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, I combine all dry ingredients: whole wheat flour, rolled oats, chia seeds, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk together to ensure even distribution.
4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. Stop when just combined.
5. Gently fold in the chopped walnuts, reserving some for topping if desired.

Baking Process

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. If using the optional topping, sprinkle the additional oats, walnuts, and chia seeds over the surface.
3. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
4. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use very ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots for maximum sweetness
• Don’t overmix the batter to ensure a tender crumb
• If the top is browning too quickly, tent with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking
• Let the bread cool completely before slicing for clean cuts

Nutritional Information

(Per slice, based on 12 servings)

• Calories: 165
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 9g
• Fat: 8g
• Iron: 1mg
• Calcium: 25mg
• Omega-3 fatty acids: 0.5g

Time Requirements

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
• Cooling Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Storage Instructions

This bread stays fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, I recommend:

• Refrigerator: Up to 1 week
• Freezer: Up to 3 months (slice before freezing for easy portioning)

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this bread:

• Lightly toasted with a spread of almond butter
• Topped with fresh banana slices and a drizzle of honey
• As part of a healthy breakfast with Greek yogurt and fresh berries
• As an afternoon snack with a cup of herbal tea

This banana nut breakfast bread is more than just a morning meal – it’s a nutritious way to fuel your day with complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein. The addition of chia seeds not only provides omega-3 fatty acids but also helps maintain moisture in the bread. Whether you’re rushing out the door or enjoying a leisurely weekend breakfast, this bread delivers both nutrition and satisfaction in every slice.