So, I was brainstorming recipes last week, thinking about how my husband and I could cut down on refined sugar, and that’s when it hit me: why not make banana bread sweetened with dates?
I know, sounds a bit out there, right? But trust me, this is not your average banana bread.
It’s naturally sweetened, incredibly moist, vegan friendly, and packed with flavor.
I’ve been tweaking this recipe to perfection, and it’s finally ready for you to try. Get ready to be blown away by how deliciously healthy banana bread can be!
Also try out: Chocolate Banana Cake Recipe
Why Choose Date-Sweetened Banana Bread?
Have you ever thought about switching up your sweeteners? I was in the same boat until I discovered the wonders of date paste in baking.
These little gems are packed with nutrients and lower glycemic index, making them a fantastic alternative to refined sugars.
The best part? They add a rich, caramel-like flavor that complements the bananas perfectly.
When I first experimented with this Date Sweetened Banana Bread, I was amazed at the moist, tender texture and the depth of flavor the dates brought. It’s not just a healthier choice – it’s a tastier one, too!
If you are looking for ways to naturally sweeten your baked goods, don’t dismiss giving date caramel a chance.
Ingredients For Banana Bread Sweetened with Dates
To make this delicious date bread, you will need the following ingredients.
Dates, pitted and chopped: I used Pitted Medjool Dates. They add a natural sweetness and a lovely, rich flavor that I love.
Hot water: This helps soften the dates, making them super easy to blend into a smooth paste.
Ripe bananas, mashed: The riper, the better. They give our bread that classic, sweet banana-y goodness.
Oil: This keeps our bread moist. I usually use avocado oil, melted butter or coconut oil for a hint of tropical flavor, but vegetable oil works great, too. If you aren’t an oil fan, apple sauce or yoghurt is a great substitute.
Raw Agave Nectar: For extra sweetness. You can also use Maple Syrup.
All-purpose flour: It’s the tried and true foundation of our bread. But hey, if you’re into oat flour or a gluten-free mix, go for it! The bread might be a tad denser but still delish, and you may need to adjust the ratios.
Baking soda: This makes sure our bread rises and gets that perfect fluffy texture.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance all the flavors.
Cinnamon: This spice is a must for me – it just adds a nice, warm, cozy feel.
Nuts or chocolate chips (optional): Who doesn’t love a bit of crunch or a chocolatey surprise? Totally up to you! I kept mine plain for this recipe.
Butter (optional): I added some butter to each slice after baking. It is THE BEST topping to add to this bread.
Step-by-Step How To Make Date Sweetened Banana Bread
Step 1: Prep the Date Paste and Mash the Bananas
Start by soaking the dates in hot water. This softens them up and gets them ready for blending. Once they’re nice and soft, blend the dates and water until smooth, then set it aside.
Next, take your ripe bananas and mash them up well in a small bowl. If you want your bananas to be smoother, you can put them in a blender and process them until it’s smooth.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas, date paste, maple syrup, and oil until well combined.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. It’s important to mix these separately to make sure everything gets evenly distributed.
Now, gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mix (do not overmix). If you decide on nuts or chocolate chips, toss them in, too!
Step 4: Bake In The Oven
Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 5 inch loaf pan and pop it into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 mins or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The waiting is the hardest part, but so worth it!
Step 5: Cool and Serve the Date Sweetened Banana Bread
After baking, let the bread cool down before slicing. This is when I struggle with patience, but trust me, it slices better when it’s cooled.
There you have it! Your very own, healthier, date-sweetened banana bread.
Expert Tips and Recipe Customizations
Alright, now that you’ve got your basic recipe down, let me share some of my personal tips and favorite customizations to make your banana bread truly special:
Bananas Matter: The riper the bananas, the better the taste. They’re sweeter and mash more easily, lending more flavor and moisture to your bread. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots.
Oil Pairings: If you’re using coconut oil, melt it first for easier mixing. Vegetable oil is great for a neutral flavor, but coconut oil adds a lovely subtle aroma.
Flour Alternatives: All-purpose flour works wonderfully, but don’t be afraid to experiment! Half whole wheat flour for added fiber, or a gluten-free blend for those with sensitivities, can be great options. Just be mindful that the texture might change slightly.
Perfecting the Date Paste: When making your date caramel, ensure the dates are fully softened before blending. This makes a big difference in achieving a smooth, consistent texture. If your dates are a bit tough, let them soak in hot water a bit longer or boil them on low heat until they soften up.
How To Serve and Store Your Date Banana Bread
Serve this date banana bread warm with a spread of butter for a hearty breakfast, or enjoy it as a midday snack.
It stays fresh in an airtight container for several days and can be frozen for long-term storage. Simply slice before freezing for easy, grab-and-go portions.
The Best Healthy Banana Bread
This Healthy Date-Sweetened Banana Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a journey towards more mindful, delicious baking.
With its natural sweetness, wholesome ingredients, and customizable options, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
If you loved this recipe, then you should also try out my date paste cookies or banana shortcake, which is similar and delicious.
Let me know in the comments if you made this dish, and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more healthy, mouth-watering recipes.
Date Sweetened Banana Bread
Ingredients
- 1½ cup dates - I used pitted medjool dates
- 1 cup water - boiling hot water
- 2 bananas - overripe, mashed
- ¼ cup oil - vegetable, avocado or coconut oil works, as well as melted butter
- 3 tbsps Agave Nectar - or maple syrup
- 2 cups All Purpose Flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- chocolate chips - optional
Instructions
Prepare the Date Paste
- Soak the chopped dates in hot water for about 30 minutes to soften.
- Blend the soaked dates and water until smooth. Set aside.
Make the Date Sweetened Banana Bread
- Preheat your oven to 350 °F. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas with the date paste, agave, and oil until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing. If using, fold in nuts or chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
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