A beautifully plated slice of moist Date Sweetened Banana Bread on a minimalist white plate, with a scattering of fresh green herbs in the background. The scene is illuminated by soft, natural morning light filtering through the east window, highlighting the marble countertops and a corner of the same wooden cutting board. The loaf's golden-brown crust and tender crumb are perfectly visible, evoking a delicious, wholesome appeal. No hands or people.

Date Sweetened Banana Bread: Healthy & Moist Loaf

ByMaya
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A rustic, wholesome loaf of Date Sweetened Banana Bread, cooling on a wire rack on the marble countertop, with gentle natural morning light creating soft shadows. The same wooden cutting board and a sprig of fresh herbs are artfully placed nearby, emphasizing a clean and tidy presentation. No hands or people.

Date Sweetened Banana Bread

There’s an undeniable magic in a warm slice of banana bread, a cozy feeling that wraps around you like a gentle hug. My Date Sweetened Banana Bread isn’t just another recipe; it’s a revelation in wholesome baking, transforming those forgotten overripe bananas and the natural sweetness of dates into a moist, flavorful loaf that truly sings. The journey to this healthier, yet decadent, creation began on a lazy Sunday, dreaming of comfort without the refined sugar.

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That first delicious bite was a game-changer, instantly transporting me back to my grandma’s kitchen, but with a lighter, more complex sweetness that felt utterly modern and indulgent. It’s this deep, caramel-like sweetness from dates that I’ve fallen head over heels for, inspiring so many of my healthier bakes – from this delightful loaf to my intensely fudgy Date Sweetened Brownies.

This recipe proves that mindful eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or comfort, and if you’re curious about other takes on this beloved treat, you might also enjoy exploring discussions like the one on Taste Charm’s Date Sweetened Banana Bread.

Date Sweetened Banana Bread: Healthy & Moist Loaf
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Date Sweetened Banana Bread: Healthy & Moist Loaf

Recipe by MayaCourse: BreadsCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

40

minutes
Calories

300

kcal

This Date Sweetened Banana Bread is an incredibly moist and flavorful loaf, naturally sweetened entirely with dates, making it a wholesome alternative to traditional banana bread. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or a guilt-free dessert!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup pitted Medjool dates, packed

  • 1/2 cup hot water (for dates)

  • 3 very ripe medium bananas, mashed (about 1.5 cups)

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled (or coconut oil)

  • 1 large egg

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1 1/2 cups whole wheat pastry flour (or all-purpose flour)

  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

  • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Directions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
  • To make date paste: In a small bowl, combine pitted dates and hot water. Let soak for 10 minutes to soften. Transfer dates and water to a food processor or high-speed blender and blend until a smooth, thick paste forms. Set aside.
  • In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas thoroughly with a fork or potato masher.
  • Add the melted butter (or coconut oil), egg, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk until well combined.
  • Stir in the prepared date paste until evenly incorporated.
  • In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently with a spatula just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  • If using, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
  • Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
  • Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve.

Notes

    • Banana Bliss: Use very ripe (almost black) bananas for the sweetest, most intense flavor and a wonderfully moist texture. They’re easier to mash and contribute natural sweetness.
    • Date Paste Perfection: For the smoothest date paste, ensure your dates are very soft. If they’re a bit firm, soak them in hot water for 10-15 minutes before blending. This ensures even sweetness throughout your banana bread.
    • Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing develops gluten, which can lead to a tougher, denser banana bread instead of the tender, moist crumb we’re aiming for.

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