Healthy Banana Bread

This naturally sweetened, gluten-free banana bread is moist, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients. With a hint of chocolate, crunchy walnuts, and the richness of fresh vanilla, it’s the perfect guilt-free treat for breakfast or a snack.

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients:

2 ripe bananas – naturally sweet and full of potassium

3 tbsp maple syrup – an unrefined, natural sweetener

2 flax eggs – plant-based and rich in omega-3s (see instructions below)

1 tsp vanilla extract – for a warm, aromatic touch

Seeds of 1 fresh vanilla bean – for added depth of flavor

Dry Ingredients:

1/2 cup collagen powder – boosts protein for skin, hair, and joint health

1/4 cup coconut or almond flour – nutrient-dense, gluten-free alternatives

1/2 tsp baking soda – for a light rise

Pinch of sea salt – to enhance flavor

Mix-ins (Optional, but Recommended):

1/4 cup chopped walnuts – adds crunch and heart-healthy fats

1/4 cup cacao nibs – a rich, antioxidant-packed alternative to chocolate

Salty HU chocolate pieces – for a decadent, salty-sweet touch

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly with coconut oil.

Make the Flax Eggs:

For each flax egg, mix 1 tbsp ground flaxseed with 3 tbsp water. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until it forms a gel-like consistency.

Combine Wet Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Add the maple syrup, flax eggs, vanilla extract, and fresh vanilla bean seeds. Mix until well combined.

Add the Dry Ingredients:

Stir in the collagen powder, coconut or almond flour, baking soda, and sea salt. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Fold in the Mix-ins:

Gently fold in the chopped walnuts, cacao nibs, and HU chocolate pieces, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake:

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.

Bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Enjoy:

Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Success:

• Banana ripeness: Use overripe bananas with brown spots for the sweetest and best flavor.

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 1 week. This banana bread also freezes beautifully—wrap slices individually for easy grab-and-go snacks.

• Customization: Swap walnuts for pecans or add shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.

This Healthy Banana Bread is the ultimate nourishing treat, perfect for pairing with a cup of tea, spreading with almond butter, or enjoying on its own.