Desserts

Banana and Nutella bread

⏱ 15 min🍳 60 min👤 6 pp★★☆☆☆

In order to tempt our children and their young friends to eat foods that they not only enjoy but which are also good for their health, we often have to resort to certain smart ploys to get the outcome we desire: in some cases, though, it is even possible to achieve this with desserts and cakes where the result is often very rich and indulgent. Take, for example, the American classic recipe for tasty and delicious banana bread: in this case, we can combine the irresistible delicacy of Nutella with the important nourishing qualities of banana, which is very rich in potassium and other substances beneficial to health. Even from the aesthetic point of view – in addition to how good it tastes - the end result is especially noteworthy: you get a marbled sponge cake that is utterly tempting from the very first glance.

Ingredients

Nutritional values 520 kcal / serving

Protein
7g
Carbohydrates
78g
Fat
18g
Fiber
2g

* approximate values per serving

Information
15 minutes Preparation time
60 minutes Cooking time
Serves 6 persons
★★☆☆☆ Medium difficulty

Preparation

In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Peel the bananas and blend them to create a smooth puree. Pour the puree into a food mixer along with the softened butter, mix together, and then add the two types of sugar, whisking constantly for a few minutes until you have a smooth paste. Add the eggs and mix them into the dough. Add the flour mixture prepared previously and whisk well until the mixture is thick and fairly firm. Remove half of the dough from the mixer and add Nutella to the remainder, continuing to mix. Preheat the oven to 200°C, line a loaf tin with baking parchment, and pour in the first half of the mixture. Then pour the other Nutella mixture on top and stir gently with a fork so as to form a marbling pattern. Bake for one hour, or until the crust is firm and dark brown. Do the toothpick test to check that the centre of the cake is dry and well cooked.

Tips
If you want to make your banana and Nutella bread even more yummy, add either walnuts or hazelnuts which will provide an extra bit of texture.
Trivia
Banana and Nutella bread is a sponge cake whose origin is clearly to be found in Anglo-Saxon countries, especially the United States and Australia.

Step by step

Mix the flour
Mix the flour
**Click on the photos to access full step by step!

Additional information

Banana and Nutella bread with walnuts

One of the tastiest variations of Banana and Nutella bread is definitely the one with the addition of walnuts. This ingredient not only enriches the flavor of the sweet bread but also adds a pleasant crunch. To prepare it, simply coarsely chop the walnuts and incorporate them into the batter before pouring it into the mold. The walnuts, in addition to giving a touch of originality, also provide valuable nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, and fiber. The final result will be an even more delicious and nutritious sweet bread, perfect for a snack or a healthy and tasty breakfast. Moreover, the combination of banana, Nutella, and walnuts creates a harmony of flavors that captivates at first bite.

American-style Banana and Nutella bread

Banana and Nutella bread is a typical sweet bread from the United States, often made with simple and genuine ingredients. The "American-style" version of this sweet bread is characterized by the use of brown sugar, which gives it a richer and more caramelized flavor. Additionally, it is common to add a pinch of cinnamon to the batter to further enhance the aromas. This sweet bread is often served in slices, perhaps slightly toasted, and accompanied by an extra spread of Nutella or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The preparation is very simple and quick, making this Banana and Nutella bread an excellent choice for a brunch or a family snack.

Light Banana and Nutella bread without butter

For those who want a lighter version of Banana and Nutella bread, it can be made without butter. In this case, butter can be replaced with low-fat plain yogurt or applesauce. This not only reduces the calories of the sweet bread but also maintains the moisture and softness of the batter. The banana, already sweet on its own, allows for a reduction in the amount of sugar, making the sweet bread healthier. The preparation remains essentially the same, and the final result will be a light Banana and Nutella bread that satisfies the palate without weighing you down. Perfect for those looking for a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor!

Banana and Nutella bread: benefits and calories

Banana and Nutella bread, thanks to the presence of bananas, offers numerous nutritional benefits. Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, B vitamins, and fiber, which aid digestion and provide energy. Additionally, Nutella, while being a food rich in sugars and fats, also provides a good dose of iron and calcium. In terms of calories, a slice of Banana and Nutella bread can contain about 200-250 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the portions. It is important to consume it in moderation, but it can be a great choice for an energizing breakfast or snack.

Can Banana and Nutella bread be frozen?

Yes, Banana and Nutella bread can be frozen without any issues. To do this, it is advisable to let it cool completely after baking. Once cool, it can be wrapped in plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container, making sure to remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you want to enjoy it, simply take it out of the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature or warm it slightly in the oven. This helps maintain the freshness and softness of the sweet bread, making it ready to be served at any time.