Banana Pineapple Bread
Banana pineapple bread is a moist, tropical-flavored quick bread that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the tangy juiciness of crushed pineapple. This flavorful loaf is often enriched with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and sometimes includes chopped nuts or shredded coconut for added texture. The pineapple adds moisture, making the bread extra soft and tender.
Ingredients:
2 large ripe bananas, mashed
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (heart-healthy fat)
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (replaces some oil for moisture)
1/4 cup honey or pure maple syrup (natural sweetener)
2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan option)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups almond flour (or spelt flour for Mediterranean-friendly fiber)
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of sea salt
Add-Ins:
3/4 cup fresh pineapple, diced (or canned in its juice, drained)
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional for added crunch)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with olive oil or line it with parchment paper.
Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, olive oil, applesauce, honey/maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the almonds flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Add the Pineapple and Coconut:
Gently fold in the diced pineapple, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts (if using).
Bake the Bread:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the bread and enjoy it as a breakfast, snack, or light dessert!
Why It’s Mediterranean-Friendly:
Healthy Fats:
Extra virgin olive oil and nuts provide heart-healthy unsaturated fats.
Natural Sweeteners:
Honey or maple syrup replace refined sugar.
Whole Grains: Whole wheat flour boosts fiber content.
Nutrient-Rich Additions:
Pineapple and coconut add natural sweetness, vitamins, and antioxidants.
This recipe offers a nutritious, tropical-inspired treat that’s perfect for the Mediterranean diet!