This Sesame Chia Banana Bread is a delightful twist on the classic banana bread, incorporating the nutty flavors of tahini and sesame seeds along with the nutritional boost of chia seeds. The honey not only adds sweetness but also a beautiful moisture to the bread. It’s a perfect snack or breakfast option that combines health with flavor. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (about 3) very/over-ripe bananas, mashed: The base of the bread, providing natural sweetness and moisture.
- 1/2 cup honey: Adds sweetness and helps to moisten the bread.
- 1/2 cup tahini: Provides a creamy, nutty flavor.
- 2 eggs, slightly beaten: Binds the ingredients together.
- 1/3 cup milk: Adds moisture. Any kind of milk, dairy or non-dairy, can be used.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The main dry ingredient, giving structure to the bread.
- 1 cup rolled oats: Adds texture and a slight chewiness.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda: Helps the bread rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon white sesame seeds: Adds a nutty flavor and a decorative touch.
- 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds: For a visually appealing contrast and extra nuttiness.
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds: Provides a nutritional boost and a slight crunch.
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven and Prep Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix together the mashed bananas, honey, tahini, slightly beaten eggs, and milk until well combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Add Sesame and Chia Seeds:
- Fold in the white and black sesame seeds and chia seeds into the batter, reserving a small amount of each to sprinkle on top before baking.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the reserved sesame and chia seeds on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Serve as is, or for an extra treat, drizzle with a little more honey or spread with additional tahini.
Tips:
- Banana Ripeness: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more moist your bread will be.
- Tahini: Make sure to stir the tahini well before measuring, as it tends to separate in the jar.
- Storage: This banana bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or refrigerated for longer freshness. It also freezes well.
Enjoy your Sesame Chia Banana Bread with Honey and Tahini, a unique and delicious take on the traditional banana bread that’s sure to become a new favorite!