Wholesome & Delicious: Whole Wheat Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Recipe + Kitchen Aid Mixer Giveaway!
We love to share our favorite things with you, and that often means exciting giveaways! After a fantastic series of promotions over the last few weeks, we’re thrilled to keep the good times rolling into the new year. January doesn’t mean the end of fun surprises, and today, we’re teaming up with a wonderful group of fellow bloggers to offer one incredibly lucky winner a prize that no home baker should be without: a brand new Kitchen Aid Stand Mixer in the color of their choice! As someone who absolutely relies on my Kitchen Aid mixer for countless baking projects, I can confidently say this is a truly awesome prize that will revolutionize your kitchen.
And what better way to celebrate the possibility of a new mixer than with a recipe that’s both simple and satisfying? I’ve got a fantastic healthier banana bread recipe that you can whip up in your new Kitchen Aid – or your current one, of course! This isn’t just any banana bread; it’s a wholesome twist on a classic, perfect for a cozy breakfast, a midday snack, or even a thoughtful homemade gift.
Why This Wholesome Banana Bread Will Become Your New Favorite
The world of banana bread recipes is vast and varied, with countless versions available. Here on the blog, I even have a couple of different takes already. But some classics deserve endless variations, and banana bread is definitely one of them! It’s the ultimate comfort food, a perfect way to use up those overripe bananas, and universally loved. My goal with this recipe was to make it a little lighter without sacrificing any of that beloved flavor and moist texture.
This whole wheat version incorporates several thoughtful substitutions to boost its nutritional profile. We start with **whole wheat flour**, which provides more fiber and nutrients compared to all-purpose flour, giving the bread a richer, slightly nutty flavor. Instead of butter, we use **coconut oil**, which adds a delicate hint of tropical flavor and contributes healthy fats. For added moisture and a boost of protein, we include **Greek yogurt**. This ingredient is a game-changer, making the bread incredibly tender while reducing the need for excess fat. I’ve also consciously **reduced the amount of sugar** from traditional recipes, allowing the natural sweetness of the ripe bananas to shine through.
Of course, it wouldn’t be *my* recipe if I didn’t add a little something extra! I couldn’t resist folding in a handful of mini chocolate chips, because, well, chocolate makes everything better. However, if chocolate isn’t your preference, feel free to omit them entirely or substitute with some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your taste!
The Versatility of Whole Wheat Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
This particular banana bread recipe yields one perfect loaf, making it ideal for a small household or a quick treat. However, it’s incredibly easy to double the recipe! I highly recommend doing so and freezing one loaf for later. Having a variety of homemade breads and muffins in your freezer is a true kitchen hack. Imagine a lazy weekend morning when you crave something special, or when an unexpected guest drops by – you’ll always have a delicious, homemade treat ready to go. Simply thaw, slice, and enjoy!
Beyond personal enjoyment, a freshly baked loaf of banana bread makes for wonderful thank-you gifts or thoughtful gestures throughout the year. Wrap it up nicely, and you’ve got a homemade present that shows you care, perfect for neighbors, teachers, or hosts.
Tips for Baking the Perfect Banana Bread Every Time
Achieving the perfect, moist banana bread is simpler than you might think with a few key tips:
- Use Ripe Bananas: This is crucial! The darker and spottier your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Don’t be afraid of bananas that look “too far gone” – they’re perfect for baking. They also mash easily, ensuring a smooth batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet, mix just until combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough, dense bread rather than a tender one. A few lumps are perfectly fine!
- Coconut Oil Consistency: Ensure your coconut oil is melted but not hot. If it’s too warm, it could cook the eggs slightly or affect the batter’s consistency.
- Check for Doneness: Baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven. Always test with a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, but no wet batter.
- Cool Properly: Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes before attempting to remove it. This helps it firm up and prevents it from breaking. Then, transfer it directly to the wire rack to cool completely. Slicing too early can result in a gummy texture.
- Ingredient Quality: While simple, the quality of your ingredients matters. Fresh eggs, good vanilla, and quality whole wheat flour can make a noticeable difference in the final taste.
Storing and Freezing for Future Enjoyment
One of the best things about banana bread is how well it stores, and even freezes! Here’s how to keep your loaf fresh:
- At Room Temperature: Once completely cooled, wrap the banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Store it in an airtight container on your counter for up to 3-4 days. The plastic wrap prevents it from drying out, while the container keeps it fresh.
- In the Refrigerator: If you prefer to extend its shelf life slightly, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week, wrapped in the same manner. This is especially good in warmer climates.
- Freezing for Long-Term: For longer storage, allow the loaf to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature. You can even warm slices gently in the microwave or a toaster oven for that “freshly baked” feel.
Having a frozen loaf on hand is a fantastic way to ensure you always have a comforting treat, whether for an unexpected brunch or just a busy weekday morning. The dense texture of banana bread handles freezing beautifully, so you won’t lose any of that deliciousness.
Whole Wheat Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
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Ingredients
- 2 cups white whole wheat flour
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vanilla Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 3 bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips, (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 C). Spray or grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
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In a stand mixer (or with a hand mixer), beat together the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and melted coconut oil until well blended and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated. Mix in the Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and mashed bananas. Beat until the mixture is smooth. Slowly add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips (if using).
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, carefully remove the bread from the pan and place it directly on the wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
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We hope you enjoy this wonderful Whole Wheat Chocolate Chip Banana Bread recipe. It’s a delightful way to bring warmth and deliciousness into your home, whether for everyday enjoyment or special occasions.
Enter Our Amazing Kitchen Aid Stand Mixer Giveaway!
Now for the exciting part! This incredible Kitchen Aid Stand Mixer could be yours. It’s a powerful tool that makes baking faster, easier, and much more enjoyable. From kneading dough to whipping creams, its versatility is unmatched in the kitchen. If you’ve been dreaming of owning one or upgrading your current model, now is your chance!
A Big Thank You to Our Sponsors!
This fantastic giveaway is made possible by the generosity of an amazing group of bloggers. Please take a moment to visit their sites and show them some love. They are all incredible creators and sharing this prize with you is a testament to their passion for the culinary community. We are so grateful for their support and collaboration!
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Cravings of a Lunatic