Healthy Lemon Poppyseed Banana Bread: A Delightful and Nutritious Treat

Indulge in the bright, zesty flavors of this Healthy Lemon Poppyseed Banana Bread. Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas and enhanced with a hint of lemon, this bread is a perfect blend of citrusy freshness and sweet banana goodness. The addition of poppy seeds provides a delightful crunch, making each bite enjoyable and unique. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast treat, a snack, or a light dessert, this lemon poppyseed banana bread is sure to become a favorite.

Why You'll Love This: This banana bread is not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients. The ripe bananas provide natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sugars, while almond flour and gluten-free flour offer a nutritious base. The lemon juice and zest add a refreshing twist, making this bread perfect for any time of the day. The simple glaze made with lemon juice and honey or maple syrup adds an extra touch of sweetness and tanginess that complements the bread beautifully.

Perfect Occasion: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a healthy snack, this lemon poppyseed banana bread is versatile and convenient. It's also an excellent choice for gatherings, picnics, or potlucks, where its delightful flavors and wholesome ingredients will be appreciated by all. This recipe is great for using up overripe bananas and incorporating a burst of citrus flavor into your baked goods.

Decoration Tips:

1. Poppy Seeds: Sprinkle additional poppy seeds on top of the glaze for a visually appealing and crunchy finish.
2. Lemon Slices: Garnish with thin slices of lemon or lemon zest curls for a bright, citrusy decoration.
3. Edible Flowers: Add a few edible flowers like pansies or violets for a beautiful, spring-inspired look.
4. Fresh Berries: Serve with fresh berries such as blueberries or raspberries for a burst of color and added flavor.

Recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • Loaf:
    • 3 ripe medium bananas (the riper, the sweeter)
    • 1 1/2 cups almond flour
    • 3/4 cup gluten-free flour
    • 3 eggs
    • 3 tbsp avocado oil
    • 1/4 cup poppy seeds
    • 3 tbsp lemon juice
    • 1 tbsp lemon zest
    • 1 tsp baking powder
    • 1 tsp baking soda
  • Glaze:
    • 1 tbsp lemon zest
    • 2 tbsp lemon juice
    • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a food processor or large mixing bowl, combine all the loaf ingredients until smooth and well-mixed.
2. Bake: Pour the batter into a parchment-lined loaf pan. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the lemon zest, lemon juice, and honey or maple syrup until well combined.
4. Cool and Glaze: Allow the loaf to cool completely in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cooled, pour the glaze over the top.
5. Serve: Slice and serve your Healthy Lemon Poppyseed Banana Bread, enjoying the refreshing and sweet flavors with every bite.

Enjoy this delightful and nutritious Lemon Poppyseed Banana Bread, a perfect treat for any occasion that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the zesty freshness of lemon!