Double Chocolate Greek Yogurt Banana Bread
This Double Chocolate Greek Yogurt Banana Bread is a higher protein option, thanks to the inclusion of almond flour and Greek yogurt. It's crafted without butter or oil, yet boasts a remarkably soft and tender texture that's truly remarkable! Naturally sweetened and packed with chocolate flavor, it serves as a deliciously healthier alternative to the traditional favorite.
In terms of taste, chocolate takes the spotlight, complemented by subtle hints of banana peeking through. This bread caters perfectly to chocolate lovers and offers a delightful treat for those in search of a scrumptious and nutritious option!
Enjoy,
SiLLibake
Double Chocolate Greek Yogurt Banana Bread
Irresistibly soft, naturally sweetened, and bursting with chocolate flavor, offering a healthier version of a beloved classic.
Incorporating almond flour, yogurt, and espresso powder into the Double Chocolate Yogurt Banana Bread not only elevates its taste but also boosts its nutritional value. From providing healthy fats, protein, and fiber to supporting gut health and enhancing flavor, these ingredients contribute to a delicious and wholesome indulgence. So, the next time you bake a batch of this delectable bread, savor not only its taste but also the nourishment it provides.
Almond flour, made from finely ground almonds, serves as a wholesome alternative to traditional wheat flour. Its nutritional benefits include:
Rich in Healthy Fats: Almonds are packed with monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and help lower bad cholesterol levels, thus reducing the risk of heart disease.
High in Protein: Almond flour is a good source of plant-based protein, making it an excellent choice for those following vegetarian or vegan diets or looking to increase their protein intake.
Low in Carbohydrates: Compared to wheat flour, almond flour contains fewer carbohydrates and is lower on the glycemic index, making it suitable for individuals watching their blood sugar levels or following a low-carb diet.
Incorporating Greek yogurt into desserts offers a multitude of benefits, both for taste and nutrition. Here are several reasons why it's important:
Creamy Texture: Greek yogurt adds a luxurious creaminess to desserts without the need for heavy creams or fats. Its thick consistency contributes to the texture of desserts, making them richer and smoother.
Healthier Alternative: Compared to traditional dessert ingredients like heavy cream or sour cream, Greek yogurt is lower in calories and fat while being rich in protein. This makes desserts healthier without sacrificing taste.
High Protein Content: Greek yogurt is packed with protein, which helps in keeping you feeling full and satisfied for longer periods. Incorporating it into desserts can turn a sweet treat into a more balanced snack or meal component.
Probiotic Benefits: Greek yogurt contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support gut health. By including Greek yogurt in desserts, you can add a dose of these probiotics, aiding digestion and promoting a healthy gut microbiome.
Versatility: Greek yogurt is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of desserts, from creamy cheesecakes to tangy frozen yogurt popsicles. Its neutral flavor allows it to pair well with both sweet and savory ingredients, offering endless possibilities for dessert creations.
Substitution Potential: Greek yogurt can often be used as a healthier substitute for other high-calorie ingredients in dessert recipes. For example, it can replace butter, oil, or mayonnaise in certain recipes, reducing the overall calorie and fat content of the dessert.
Enhanced Nutrient Profile: In addition to protein, Greek yogurt contains essential nutrients such as calcium, potassium, and vitamin B12. Incorporating it into desserts adds these nutrients to your sweet indulgences, contributing to overall health and well-being.
Balances Sweetness: Greek yogurt's tanginess can help balance out the sweetness of desserts, preventing them from becoming overly cloying. This creates a more nuanced flavor profile that appeals to a wider range of tastes.
Double Chocolate Greek Yogurt Banana Bread
PREP TIME: 10 MIN
COOK TIME: 45-50 MIN
Double Chocolate Greek Yogurt Banana Bread
This Double Chocolate Greek Yogurt Banana Bread doesn't contain any butter or oil, yet it's incredibly soft and tender—so much so that you wouldn't even notice the difference! Naturally sweetened and bursting with chocolate flavor, it serves as a delightful, healthier substitute for the classic favorite!
Ingredients:
· 1 cup all-purpose flour
· 1/2 cup almond flour
· 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
· 1 tbsp instant espresso powder (optional)
· 1 tsp baking soda
· 1/2 tsp baking powder
· 1/2 tsp sea salt
· 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
· 3-4 large, ripe banana (1 1/4 cup mashed)
· 1/2 cup plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
· 1/4 cup maple syrup
· 1/4 cup coconut sugar
· 1 tsp. vanilla extract
· ½ cup chocolate chips (additional 2 tbsp for the top, optional)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350ºF (176ºC), and lightly grease a 9 x 5 (23cm x 13cm) loaf pan. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine AP flour, almond flour, cocoa, instant espresso, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix until well combined and set aside.
Lightly beat the eggs in a medium sized mixing bowl. Add mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, coconut sugar, and vanilla. Stir until well combined
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently. Do not over mix. Fold in chocolate chips.
Pour the batter into the loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. Add the extra chocolate chips on the top and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After 40-45 minutes, you may wish to cover with a sheet of tin foil to prevent the top from getting too brown.
Remove from oven and let cool for about 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.
HOW TO STORE THIS DOUBLE CHOCOLATE GREEK YOGURT BANANA BREAD:
It should be stored in a cool, dry place that isn't in direct sunlight.
Once it is completely cool, keep banana bread fresh by placing it in an airtight container, wrapping it in plastic wrap, or even slicing it and wrapping it in plastic wrap.
