If you love banana bread as much as I do, you’re in for a treat with this Banana Bread Flax Seed Recipe.
Banana Bread Flax Seed Recipe a healthier take on the traditional recipe, incorporating the benefits of flax seeds for an extra boost of fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein.
Banana bread is a classic comfort food, loved for its rich flavor and moist texture. But if you’re looking for a healthier version, the Banana Bread Flax Seed Recipe is the perfect solution.
By incorporating flax seeds, this recipe transforms the traditional treat into a powerhouse of nutrition.
Flax seeds are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants, all of which offer numerous health benefits, including improved heart health, better digestion, and enhanced skin health.
How To Prepare Banana Bread Flax Seed Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Course: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
Calories: 150
Cuisine: American
Yield: 1 loaf (8-10 slices)
Kitchen Utensils
Before we get started, here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need:
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 medium bowl (for wet ingredients)
- 1 loaf pan (9×5 inches)
- Whisk
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven mitts
Ingredients
For this healthy twist on banana bread, you’ll need the following:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
- 1/4 cup ground flax seed
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour if you prefer)
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil (or vegetable oil)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional for added flavor)
- 1/4 cup milk (any type – I prefer almond milk for a dairy-free option)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash your ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until they reach a smooth consistency. You want about 1 cup of mashed banana, so if the bananas are particularly small, feel free to use an extra one.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and milk. Add in the mashed bananas and stir everything until well combined. The wet mixture should be smooth and slightly creamy.
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, ground flax seeds, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). The flax seeds will not only add nutrients but also help bind the ingredients together.
5. Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients bowl. Stir everything together until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix—this can result in dense banana bread. The batter should be thick but spreadable.
6. Pour the Batter into the Loaf Pan
Transfer the batter into your greased loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth out the top, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
7. Bake the Banana Bread
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check the banana bread after 50 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s done. If not, bake for an additional 5 minutes and check again.
8. Cool and Serve
Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Afterward, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice into 8-10 pieces, depending on how thick you like your slices.
Special Notes
❖ Flax Seed Tips: If you’re using whole flax seeds instead of ground flax, make sure to grind them first. Whole flax seeds won’t release their nutrients as effectively and may not blend well into the batter.
❖ Sugar Substitutes: Coconut sugar is a great option here, but you can also substitute with honey or maple syrup for a more natural sweetener. Just adjust the liquid ingredients slightly if you choose a liquid sweetener.
❖ Make It Vegan: To make this banana bread completely vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flax seed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) and use plant-based milk.
Health Benefits Of Banana Bread Flax Seed Recipe
Banana bread with flax seeds offers numerous health benefits. Flax seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants, which support heart health, improve digestion, and reduce inflammation.
The bananas provide natural sweetness and potassium, while whole wheat flour adds extra fiber for digestive health.
This combination helps regulate blood sugar, boosts protein intake, and promotes overall wellness. Enjoying a slice of this banana bread can help you maintain a balanced diet while indulging in a delicious, nutritious treat.
Storage Information
To store banana bread with flax seeds, allow it to cool completely before storing. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
You can also freeze banana bread by slicing it first, then wrapping the slices individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer. Simply thaw before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use regular flour instead of whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour. However, whole wheat flour provides more fiber and nutrients, making the bread healthier. If you use all-purpose flour, the texture may be slightly lighter.
2. Can I substitute flax seeds with chia seeds?
Yes, you can replace flax seeds with chia seeds. Both are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, so the nutritional benefits will be similar. Just make sure to grind the chia seeds if you want the same texture as ground flax.
3. How do I make this banana bread vegan?
To make the banana bread vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flax seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) and use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
4. Can I add other ingredients to the banana bread?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to customize the flavor. Just be mindful not to add too many extras, as it may affect the texture and baking time.
5. How do I know when the banana bread is done baking?
To check if your banana bread is done, insert a toothpick or knife into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is fully baked. If it’s wet, bake for an additional 5 minutes and test again.
Conclusion
This Banana Bread Flax Seed Recipe is the perfect blend of flavor and nutrition. It’s quick to prepare, easy to bake, and most importantly, it’s a healthier alternative to the traditional banana bread.
The flax seeds add a delightful texture and a nutrient boost, while the bananas provide natural sweetness without being overly sugary.
Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, a snack, or a light dessert, this banana bread will definitely become a staple in your kitchen.
Give this recipe a try next time you have overripe bananas—your taste buds and body will thank you! Enjoy!
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Banana Bread Flax Seed Recipe
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 medium bowl (for wet ingredients)
- 1 loaf pan (9×5 inches)
- Whisk
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven mitts
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas mashed (about 1 cup)
- 1/4 cup ground flax seed
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour or all-purpose flour if you prefer
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon optional for added flavor
- 1/4 cup milk any type – I prefer almond milk for a dairy-free option
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Mash the Bananas
- In a large mixing bowl, mash your ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until they reach a smooth consistency. You want about 1 cup of mashed banana, so if the bananas are particularly small, feel free to use an extra one.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and milk. Add in the mashed bananas and stir everything until well combined. The wet mixture should be smooth and slightly creamy.
Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, ground flax seeds, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). The flax seeds will not only add nutrients but also help bind the ingredients together.
Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients bowl. Stir everything together until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix—this can result in dense banana bread. The batter should be thick but spreadable.
Pour the Batter into the Loaf Pan
- Transfer the batter into your greased loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth out the top, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
Bake the Banana Bread
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check the banana bread after 50 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s done. If not, bake for an additional 5 minutes and check again.
Cool and Serve
- Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Afterward, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice into 8-10 pieces, depending on how thick you like your slices.