Nutritious Banana Bread with Dates and Walnuts

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Nutritious Banana Bread with Dates and Walnuts.

1. Step 1

   Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 300°F (150°C). While it warms up, grab four 7x3-inch loaf pans and give them a good greasing. For a delightful touch, mix 1 tablespoon of white sugar with 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Dust the insides of your greased pans with this cinnamon sugar mixture, creating a sweet base for your bread.

2. Step 2

   In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of whole wheat flour, 1 1/2 cups of quick cooking oats, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking soda, 1 1/2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon (if using), and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir these dry ingredients together until well blended.

3. Step 3

   In another bowl, beat together 2 cups of dark brown sugar and 3/4 cup of butter (if using) until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Next, add in 1 container of sour cream, 6 mashed bananas, 3 eggs, and 2 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.

4. Step 4

   Now, gently fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, being careful not to overmix. Once combined, fold in 2 cups of chopped dates, 1 cup of chopped walnuts, and 1/2 cup of toasted coconut (if using). This is where the magic happens, as the flavors meld together beautifully!

5. Step 5

   Spoon the luscious batter into your prepared loaf pans, filling them about three-quarters full. For a sweet finishing touch, sprinkle the tops of each loaf with about 1 tablespoon of dark brown sugar and 1 1/2 teaspoons each of chopped dates, walnuts, and coconut. If you like, brush the tops with 1 tablespoon of melted butter for a shiny glaze.

6. Step 6

   Pop the loaves into your preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until they turn a lovely golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!

7. Step 7

   Once baked, let the loaves cool in the pans for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy a slice warm or at room temperature, and savor the delightful flavors of this nutritious banana bread.