Tiger banana bread

Ingredients

Dough

400 grams (14.1 ounces) bananas
80 grams (2.8 ounces) coconut sugar
130 grams (4.6 ounces) plant milk
40 grams (1.4 ounces) grapeseed oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
175 grams (6.2 ounces) whole wheat flour
7 grams (0.25 ounces or about 1 teaspoon) baking powder
15 grams (0.5 ounces) cocoa powder
30 grams (1 ounce) nuts or chocolate drops
Cinnamon to taste
A pinch of turmeric for color

Equipment

Blender
For mashing the bananas and mixing the wet ingredients smoothly. A high-powered blender will save you time.
Mixing Bowls
Use separate bowls for dry and wet ingredients. Having a few different sizes will make the process easier.
Sieve
This helps to aerate the flour and baking powder, resulting in a lighter texture for your bread.
Parchment Paper
Lining your baking dish with parchment makes it easy to remove the bread without sticking.
Baking Dish
Choose a dish that is suitable for your oven size and the amount of dough. Glass dishes work well for even baking.
Oven
Preheat your oven to 338°F (170°C) for consistent results.

Instructions

Step 1

Step 2

Mash the Bananas: Mash the bananas and plant milk in a blender until smooth. For a smoother consistency, blend on high speed for 1-2 minutes.

Step 3

Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the coconut sugar, vanilla extract, and grapeseed oil. Mix well until everything is combined. Ensure the mixture is smooth and free of lumps for a better texture.

Step 4

Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the sieved whole wheat flour and baking powder to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined, taking care not to overmix. Overmixing can result in a dense pastry.

Step 5

Separate the Dough: Transfer about 1/3 of the dough to a separate bowl. It's helpful to use a digital scale to measure 1/3 of the dough for accuracy.

Step 6

Add Flavorings: Add the cocoa powder and a pinch of salt to the larger portion of dough. Mix well. To the smaller portion, add chopped nuts, chocolate drops, a pinch of cinnamon, and 1/3 teaspoon of turmeric. Knead both dough portions until the added ingredients are well incorporated. Use your hands or a spatula to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.

Step 7

Prepare Baking Dish: Line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal. Gradually spoon the dark and light dough into the dish, alternating between the two. This will create a marbled effect when baked.

Step 8

Bake: Preheat your oven to 338°F (170°C). Bake until a toothpick inserted comes out clean, approximately 35 minutes. After baking, let the bread sit in the oven for an additional 5 minutes with the oven turned off. Baking times may vary depending on your oven and the size of your baking dish.

Step 9

Step 10

Note: The bread will be moist, dense, and moderately sweet—excellent when paired with chocolate caramel!

Servings

Serve your Banana Cocoa Bread warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzle of caramel sauce for a mouth-watering dessert 🍦🥄. For a hearty breakfast option, pair it with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh berries 🍓🍇.

If you’re the host with the most, consider presenting slices of this bread on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment paper to make it Instagram-worthy 📸. Add a dash of coffee or cocoa powder on top for a touch of elegance.

Feeling extra creative? 🍫💡 Use this bread as a base for a rich bread pudding by soaking slices in a mixture of plant milk, sugar, and a bit of cinnamon before baking to custardy perfection.

Variations

Gluten-Free Variation: Swap out the whole wheat flour for a gluten-free flour blend in equal proportions. Ensure your baking powder is certified gluten-free 🌾🚫.

Vegan Variation: This recipe is already vegan! Ensure you choose chocolate drops that are dairy-free 🍫💖.

Faq

Why is my dough too sticky?
This can happen if you haven't properly measured your wet ingredients. Gradually add a bit more flour until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I use a different oil?
Absolutely, coconut oil or olive oil work just as well and add a different flavor profile.
How do I make sure my bread rises well?
Make sure your baking powder is fresh and thoroughly mixed into the dry ingredients. Kneading well helps too.
Can I add fruit to the batter?
Sure! Berries or chopped dates can add a delicious twist but be mindful to adjust the sugar content.
How do I get a perfectly moist texture?
Ensuring the right blend of wet to dry ingredients is essential. Check the dough consistency before baking.
Can I store the bread for later?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, or freeze for longer storage.