Banana Bran Zucchini Bread Recipe

Cook Time: 50 minutes

This moist and flavorful recipe combines the sweetness of pumpkin and banana with the hearty texture of zucchini, perfect for a snack or a light dessert. Follow these simple steps to create a delightful treat!

Ingredients

• cup canned pumpkin
• 1 very ripe banana, mashed
• 1 egg
• 2 egg whites
• 1 cup maple syrup
• cup raw sugar (such as turbinado or demerara)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups grated unpeeled zucchini
• 2 cups whole wheat pastry flour
• 1 cup unprocessed bran
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• teaspoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• teaspoon ground nutmeg
• teaspoon ground cloves
• teaspoon ground ginger
• teaspoon ground allspice

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan to prepare for the batter.

Step 2: In a large bowl, mix together the canned pumpkin, mashed banana, egg, and egg whites. Beat in the maple syrup, raw sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes slightly frothy.

Step 3: Stir in the grated zucchini and set the mixture aside.

Step 4: In a separate bowl, combine the whole wheat pastry flour, bran, salt, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and allspice.

Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet zucchini mixture. Stir just until everything is moistened. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can result in a tough batter.

Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bars comes out clean.

Step 8: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Cook's Note

You can also bake this recipe in two 9x5 inch loaf pans or use a muffin pan. If you decide to use smaller pans, be sure to adjust the baking times accordingly.

Unsweetened applesauce can be used as a substitute for canned pumpkin if desired.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 110
• Total Fat: 1g (1% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 0g (1% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 9mg (3% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 206mg (9% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrates: 25g (9% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (10% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 14g
• Protein: 3g (6% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 3mg (3% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 31mg (2% Daily Value)
• Iron: 1mg (4% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 179mg (4% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

History of Origin

The Banana Bran Zucchini Bread recipe is a modern twist on classic quick breads that have been around for centuries. Quick breads, such as banana bread and zucchini bread, gained popularity in the United States during the early 20th century, largely due to the advent of baking soda and baking powder, which eliminated the need for yeast. These breads became a household staple for their simplicity and the ability to use up overripe bananas and seasonal zucchinis. Over time, cooks began experimenting with adding fiber-rich ingredients like bran and whole wheat flour to make these recipes healthier and more filling. The Banana Bran Zucchini Bread combines these elements to create a moist, fiber-packed loaf that fits well into the modern demand for health-conscious, low-fat baked goods.

Regional Features

Though banana bread is a beloved American treat, the addition of zucchini is more common in North American recipes, particularly in the U.S. and Canada, where zucchini is abundant in summer months. The use of bran in quick breads is a more recent adaptation, primarily driven by the rising popularity of high-fiber diets in the last few decades. This recipe also embraces the use of maple syrup, which is a nod to the Northeastern U.S. and parts of Canada, where maple syrup production is a cultural and culinary tradition. Additionally, whole wheat flour gives the bread a denser, heartier texture, contributing to the recipes regional American identity.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Banana Bran Zucchini Bread stands apart from other banana or zucchini breads due to its use of both zucchini and bran, which adds significant fiber. While traditional banana bread typically focuses on the banana as the primary flavor and source of moisture, this recipe balances the sweetness of bananas with the mild flavor of zucchini and the earthy taste of bran. The inclusion of whole wheat flour further elevates the bread's health profile by making it more nutrient-dense compared to standard versions made with refined white flour. This makes the Banana Bran Zucchini Bread a much more wholesome option compared to lighter, sweeter breads, making it an ideal snack or breakfast option for those looking to increase their fiber intake.

Where It's Commonly Served

Banana Bran Zucchini Bread is typically served as a breakfast bread, snack, or dessert. It is perfect for brunch gatherings, potlucks, or as a healthy addition to school lunches. Due to its high fiber content and low-fat ingredients, it is often chosen by health-conscious individuals looking for a nutritious option. This bread can also be served as a light, satisfying snack with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a popular choice for afternoon breaks. It is also a great way to use up overripe bananas or excess zucchini from the garden, adding a delicious twist to any meal.

Interesting Facts

• The zucchini in this bread adds not only moisture but also a subtle flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the banana.
• The use of bran, a byproduct of wheat milling, is not only great for adding fiber but also helps to give the bread a slightly nutty taste and denser texture.
• This recipe can easily be adapted to make muffins, allowing for quicker baking times and individual portions, perfect for on-the-go snacking.
• The combination of pumpkin, banana, and maple syrup in this bread creates a natural sweetness that doesn't rely on refined sugars, making it a healthier alternative to many store-bought breads.
• The bread is very versatilebesides zucchini, you can add a variety of fruits, nuts, or even chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.

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