If you’re like me, you don’t just bake for the sake of baking; you bake with a vision of the full meal. Banana avocado bread is rich, creamy, and has a touch of sweetness that makes it versatile enough to be paired with a variety of dishes.
You slice into a warm piece of banana avocado bread, and it pairs perfectly with a dollop of Greek yogurt. The tanginess balances the sweetness. Alternatively, it can serve as a delightful side with a fresh salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette.
Perhaps you’re in the mood for more comfort food. Why not toast a slice, spread some peanut butter on top, and sprinkle a few chia seeds for an added crunch?
Honestly, the options are endless. This bread can be your morning treat alongside coffee, your afternoon snack with a green smoothie, or even a late-night dessert paired with herbal tea.
When I first stumbled upon the concept of banana avocado bread, I thought to myself, “Are those two even meant to go together?”
Well, let me tell you, they are! Here’s a bread that not only looks fantastic but also combines the rich flavors of ripe bananas and avocados. It’s like a little flavor party in your mouth.
You might be thinking, “Why should I care about a recipe for banana avocado bread?” Because it’s incredibly easy to make, healthy, and delicious! It brings together the goodness of two powerhouse ingredients.
As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I often seek to create recipes that are not only delicious but also nourishing. This bread fits the bill perfectly.
It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and packed with healthy fats, making it a guilt-free indulgence. So, grab your mixing bowls, and let’s dive into the deliciousness of banana avocado bread!
What is Banana Avocado Bread?
Banana avocado bread is a moist, flavorful bread that creatively combines the two ingredients. Most traditional banana bread relies on butter and sugar, but this version switches things up. Instead of butter, we use ripe avocados, which provide a creamy texture and healthy fats.
Bananas add natural sweetness, along with nutrients that are beneficial for heart health. This bread is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. The best part? It’s healthy enough that you won’t feel guilty sneaking another slice!
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How Does It Taste?
Now you may be wondering what exactly this bread tastes like. Think of creamy avocado and sweet banana as a duet that harmonizes beautifully.
The texture is soft and tender, making it easy to slice. You can also enjoy the subtle nuttiness from the almond flour and a hint of cinnamon that wraps around each bite.
If you decide to toss in some macadamia nuts, their crunch will add another level of delight. Have I made you hungry yet?
Why You’ll Love This?
You’ll love this recipe for multiple reasons. For starters, it’s incredibly easy to whip up. You can throw all the ingredients in a bowl, mix, and bake. In no time, your kitchen will smell fantastic!
Additionally, it’s adaptable. Want to make it vegan? Swap out the egg for flaxseed meal. Need it sweeter?
Add more maple syrup. The sky’s the limit! Plus, the health benefits associated with both bananas and avocados make this a nourishing choice. And who can resist that fluffy texture combined with incredible flavor?
Ingredients
Let’s talk about what you’ll need for this delectable bread. Simple ingredients, full of flavor, and packed with nutrients! Here’s the list:
- ¾ cup mashed banana
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ⅓ cup chopped macadamia nuts
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 ½ cups finely ground blanched almond meal
- 3 tablespoons melted coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons raw honey or pure maple syrup
- ¾ cup ripe mashed avocado
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Step by Step Directions
The following steps provide a comprehensive guide to creating the perfect banana avocado bread.
Step 1: Gather Ingredients
Before you get your hands dirty, gather all the ingredients. This little prep step can help keep the kitchen chaos to a minimum. You’ll want to peel the bananas and avocados, grab your mixing bowl, and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas and avocado together until smooth. You can use a fork or a potato masher. Make it as creamy as possible. This is where the flavor truly starts to come together.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Next, to your bowl of mashed goodness, add the egg, coconut oil, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the almond meal, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir the dry ingredients together to break up any clumps.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gradually. Stir well until everything is fully incorporated. Make sure not to overmix; you want to keep the bread tender.
Step 6: Add Optional Ingredients
If you’re using macadamia nuts or any other add-ins, fold them into the batter carefully.
Step 7: Pour into Pan
Pour the batter into a greased and lined 9×5 inch loaf pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven. Bake for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Afterward, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips on Making Banana Avocado Bread
- Mature Fruit: Use really ripe bananas and avocados. This ensures maximum sweetness and flavor.
- Add-Ins: Mix in chocolate chips or dried fruit for a unique twist.
- Check Doneness: Ovens can be tricky. Check for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off.
- Storage: Slice and store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Be Mindful of Substitutions: Changing flour types might affect baking time, so keep an eye on it.
Nutrition Information
banana avocado bread recipe nutrition facts
How Do You Store This Banana Avocado Bread?
Storing banana avocado bread is simple.
- Cool completely before wrapping.
- Use plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
- Store at room temperature for 3-4 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- You can even freeze it for longer preservation—just wrap in foil and place in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight for the best results.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Banana Avocado Bread?
If you’re looking for different flavors or ingredients, consider these substitutes:
- Applesauce: Substitute ½ cup of applesauce for some of the banana for a lighter twist.
- Sunflower Seed Butter: For nut-free options, sunflower seed butter can replace almond meal.
- Chia Seeds: Want to boost the nutrition? Stir in 2 tablespoons of chia seeds for omega-3 fatty acids.
- Oat Flour: Swap almond meal for oat flour, adjusting the liquid if necessary.
- Agave Syrup: If you’re looking for a different sweetener, agave syrup can replace honey.
Banana Avocado Bread Recipe
Equipment
- Loaf pan
Ingredients
- ¾ cup mashed banana
- 1 large egg at room temperature
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ⅓ cup chopped macadamia nuts
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 ½ cups finely ground blanched almond meal
- 3 tablespoons melted coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons raw honey or pure maple syrup
- ¾ cup ripe mashed avocado
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Gather Ingredients
- Before you get your hands dirty, gather all the ingredients. This little prep step can help keep the kitchen chaos to a minimum. You’ll want to peel the bananas and avocados, grab your mixing bowl, and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas and avocado together until smooth. You can use a fork or a potato masher. Make it as creamy as possible. This is where the flavor truly starts to come together.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
- Next, to your bowl of mashed goodness, add the egg, coconut oil, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, mix the almond meal, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir the dry ingredients together to break up any clumps.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Now, add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gradually. Stir well until everything is fully incorporated. Make sure not to overmix; you want to keep the bread tender.
Step 6: Add Optional Ingredients
- If you’re using macadamia nuts or any other add-ins, fold them into the batter carefully.
Step 7: Pour into Pan
- Pour the batter into a greased and lined 9×5 inch loaf pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven. Bake for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
- Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Afterward, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Mature Fruit: Use really ripe bananas and avocados. This ensures maximum sweetness and flavor.
- Add-Ins: Mix in chocolate chips or dried fruit for a unique twist.
- Check Doneness: Ovens can be tricky. Check for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off.
- Storage: Slice and store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Be Mindful of Substitutions: Changing flour types might affect baking time, so keep an eye on it.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely! Just defrost them, and ensure to drain any excess liquid before mashing.
Can I make this bread vegan?
Yes, substitute the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
How do you know when it’s done?
The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
What can I do with leftover bread?
Use leftovers in a bread pudding or French toast. Another option is to use it in smoothies for an added flavor kick.
Do I need to use almond meal?
No, you can use gluten-free flour blends, but adjust accordingly as texture may vary.
Is banana avocado bread gluten-free?
Yes, if you stick with almond meal or gluten-free flour, this recipe is gluten-free.
Conclusion
Banana avocado bread has quickly become a household staple for me, and for so many reasons. It’s avocado’s creaminess dancing with banana’s sweetness that makes this recipe unforgettable.
Not only is it easy to make with minimal prep time, but it also fills your home with delightful aromas. The ability to adapt this recipe with various substitutions adds to its charm. Whether you’re baking for yourself, friends, or family, this bread will surely impress.
So, next time you find yourself in the kitchen looking for something both healthy and delicious, remember this flavorful option. With the right ingredients and a bit of love, you’ll be able to create a scrumptious treat that leaves everyone asking for a second slice. Happy baking!
