Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This loaf is both delicious and nourishing. The bananas keep it soft and naturally sweet, while mixed seeds like sunflower, pumpkin, and flax add crunch, flavor, and extra nutrients. It’s easy to make, versatile, and a great way to enjoy a more balanced baked good without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ripe bananas, mashed
- All-purpose flour or whole wheat flour
- Sugar or honey
- Butter or oil
- Eggs
- Milk
- Vanilla extract
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Mixed seeds (such as sunflower, pumpkin, sesame, flax)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
- Add butter or oil, sugar or honey, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the mixed seeds, reserving some for topping if desired.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle extra seeds on top.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool before slicing and serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 8–10 slices.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 50–60 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- Nutty version: Add chopped nuts along with seeds.
- Spiced loaf: Add cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Chocolate twist: Include chocolate chips.
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan option: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk.
Storage/Reheating
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Reheat slices lightly in the microwave or toaster for best texture.
FAQs
What seeds work best?
Sunflower, pumpkin, sesame, and flax seeds are great options.
Can I use very ripe bananas?
Yes, they provide the best sweetness and moisture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it stores well and tastes great the next day.
Can I freeze the loaf?
Yes, freeze for up to 2 months.
Is this loaf healthy?
It’s more nutritious than traditional banana bread due to the seeds.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, adjust to your taste or use natural sweeteners.
Why is my loaf dense?
Overmixing can make it dense.
Can I make muffins instead?
Yes, bake for about 20–25 minutes.
What flour works best?
All-purpose or whole wheat both work well.
How do I keep it moist?
Avoid overbaking and store properly.
Conclusion
Banana and Mixed Seed Loaf is a hearty and flavorful bake that combines natural sweetness with a satisfying crunch. Easy to prepare and full of texture, it’s a perfect choice for a wholesome and delicious treat.
PrintBanana and Mixed Seed Loaf
A moist and wholesome banana loaf packed with crunchy mixed seeds for added texture and nutrition. Naturally sweet and hearty, it’s perfect for breakfast or a healthy snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 slices
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Ripe bananas, mashed
- All-purpose flour or whole wheat flour
- Sugar or honey
- Butter or oil
- Eggs
- Milk
- Vanilla extract
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Mixed seeds (such as sunflower, pumpkin, sesame, flax)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
- Add butter or oil, sugar or honey, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the mixed seeds, reserving some for topping if desired.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle extra seeds on top.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Add chopped nuts for extra crunch and flavor.
- Enhance with cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced variation.
- Mix in chocolate chips for a sweeter option.
- Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk for a vegan option.
- Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Sugar: 16 g
- Sodium: 190 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg