Unlock the secret to crafting the most delightful, easy-to-make spelt flour banana bread your family will adore. This comprehensive guide will walk you through creating a soft, sweet, and incredibly flavorful loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, a wholesome snack, or even a light dessert. Our spelt quick bread recipe stands out because it’s entirely yeast-free and requires no special breadmaker – just a few simple ingredients and a conventional oven. Get ready to discover why baking with spelt flour is a game-changer and how you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan, catering to all dietary needs. Prepare to transform those overripe bananas into a moist, wholesome treat that’s far superior to any store-bought alternative.
Discover the Versatility and Benefits of Spelt Flour in Baking
Many home bakers often wonder, “Is spelt flour good for bread making?” The answer is a resounding yes! Spelt flour is an ancient grain that offers a distinct nutty and subtly sweet flavor, which many prefer over traditional whole wheat flour. Its unique characteristics make it surprisingly easy to bake with, producing a lighter texture and more complex taste compared to its whole wheat counterpart. I personally love baking with spelt flour not only for its wonderful flavor but also for its impressive nutritional profile and ease of use.
One of the most appealing aspects of spelt flour is its versatility. You can often substitute spelt flour for whole wheat flour in recipes on a 1:1 basis, meaning it’s an excellent direct swap if you’re looking to explore new flavors or enhance the nutritional value of your baked goods. This makes it a fantastic ingredient for a wide array of recipes, from rolls and scones to pancakes, cookies, and even soda bread. Its mild yet engaging flavor complements both sweet and savory applications beautifully.
In this particular recipe, we’re harnessing the power of spelt to create a healthy and delicious quick spelt bread recipe that requires no yeast. This means no lengthy proofing times, making it an ideal choice for a last-minute craving or a spontaneous baking session. It’s also an excellent way to utilize those two (or more!) ripe, spotty bananas sitting on your counter. This no yeast spelt bread is not just a great snack; it can be a satisfying part of a balanced breakfast, offering wholesome energy to start your day.
Spelt flour, once a niche ingredient found primarily in health food stores like Whole Foods, has become much more accessible. Thankfully, you can now frequently find it in the baking aisle of most regular grocery stores. For those who prefer the convenience of online shopping, major retailers such as Amazon and specialty sites like Thrive Market also offer a wide selection of spelt flour products. This increased availability makes it easier than ever to incorporate this ancient grain into your home baking.
Crafting the Perfect Spelt Flour Banana Bread: Essential Tips
Achieving the perfect loaf of spelt banana bread is simple when you follow a few key tips. These insights will help ensure your bread is moist, flavorful, and perfectly baked every time:
- Embrace Overripe Bananas: The golden rule of banana bread is to use bananas that are deeply speckled with brown or even completely black. These bananas are significantly sweeter and softer, allowing you to reduce the amount of added sugar in your recipe. Their intense flavor also infuses the bread with a rich, natural sweetness. While fresh, ripe bananas are ideal, I recommend avoiding previously frozen bananas as they can release excess water when thawed, potentially altering the texture of your bread.
- Opt for Whole Spelt Flour: For maximum nutritional benefit and a truly wholesome taste, select whole spelt flour (often labeled as wholemeal spelt flour in the UK). This is the complete grain version, which retains all its natural fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Unlike highly refined flours, whole spelt contributes to a more satisfying and nutrient-dense bread.
- Avoid Overmixing the Batter: This is a crucial step for any quick bread. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix them just until the flour is moistened. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour too much, which can result in a dense, chewy, and less tender banana bread. A few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine!
- Consider Pan Size and Material: The type and size of your baking pan can significantly impact the final result. For this recipe, a metal baking pan is recommended as it conducts heat efficiently and helps achieve a consistent bake and a beautiful crust. Glass pans, while popular, tend to hold heat longer and can sometimes lead to a bread with a slightly moister, sometimes gummy, texture. If you decide to make smaller portions, such as spelt banana muffins or mini loaves, remember to adjust the baking time downwards, as a smaller volume and increased surface area will cook faster.
- Preheat Your Oven Thoroughly: Always ensure your oven is fully preheated to the specified temperature before placing the bread inside. A consistent oven temperature from the start is vital for proper leavening and even baking, preventing a dense center or uneven rise.
Gather Your Ingredients for Wholesome Spelt Banana Bread
Preparing this delicious banana spelt bread starts with a simple shopping list. These thoughtfully chosen ingredients come together to create a loaf that’s both nutritious and incredibly satisfying:
- Whole Grain Spelt Flour: The star of our recipe, providing a nutty flavor and wholesome texture.
- Ripe Bananas: The sweeter, the better – they’re key for natural moisture and sweetness.
- Milk: Adds moisture and contributes to a tender crumb.
- Large Egg: Acts as a binder and helps with the bread’s structure.
- Melted Butter: For richness and a deliciously moist texture.
- Chopped Walnuts: Adds a delightful crunch and earthy flavor. Feel free to substitute with other nuts or skip for a nut-free version.
- Cinnamon: A warm spice that perfectly complements the banana flavor. Pumpkin pie spice can be a lovely alternative.
- Sugar: Just enough to enhance the natural sweetness of the bananas.
- Baking Soda: Our leavening agent, ensuring a perfect rise without yeast.
- Salt: A pinch balances the flavors and enhances sweetness.
- Cooking Oil Spray: For easy removal from the pan.
Exact quantities for all ingredients can be found in the detailed recipe card at the end of this article, ensuring you have everything you need for baking success. For your spelt flour, you can use either regular whole grain spelt or sprouted spelt flour. I personally find the flavor of sprouted flour to be particularly appealing, adding another layer of complexity to the bread.
If you’re aiming for a no sugar added spelt banana bread, consider swapping the white sugar with a sugar substitute like Swerve granular. The ripe bananas provide a significant amount of natural sweetness, so you’ll find that only a modest amount of sweetener is needed regardless of your choice.
Beyond the ingredients, having the right kitchen equipment can make a noticeable difference in your baking experience and results. Here are my recommended tools for preparing the best spelt banana bread:
- Food Scale: Precision is key in baking, especially with dry ingredients like flour. Weighing your ingredients (rather than using volume measurements like cups) ensures consistent results, preventing your banana bread from becoming too wet or too dry.
- Hand Potato Masher: This is my go-to tool for mashing bananas quickly and efficiently, achieving the perfect smooth consistency. A fork works too, but a masher speeds up the process significantly.
- 8-inch by 4-inch Aluminum Loaf Pan (20.3cm x 10.2cm): This size is ideal for the recipe, promoting even baking. Remember that using a different sized pan or one made from a different material (like glass or ceramic) may require adjustments to the baking time.
- Toothpick: An indispensable tool for testing the doneness of your banana bread, ensuring it’s baked through without being overcooked.
Elevate Your Loaf with Creative Spelt Quick Bread Mix-Ins
While the classic combination of banana and walnuts is undeniably delicious, this healthy banana bread recipe is incredibly adaptable, inviting you to customize it with a variety of mix-ins. Experimenting with different additions can transform your loaf, adding new textures and layers of flavor. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
- Chocolate Chips: A perennial favorite, chocolate chips (dark, semi-sweet, or milk) melt into pockets of gooey deliciousness.
- Pecans: Offering a buttery crunch, pecans are another excellent nutty addition.
- Almonds (or other nuts): Sliced or chopped almonds, cashews, or even hazelnuts can provide a different texture and flavor profile.
- Shredded Coconut: Toasted or untoasted, coconut adds a tropical note and a chewy texture.
- Pumpkin Seeds: For a touch of autumn flavor and a boost of healthy fats and protein.
- Dried Cherries: Tangy and sweet, dried cherries add a vibrant burst of flavor.
- Dried Blueberries: Similar to cherries, dried blueberries offer a sweet-tart complement.
- Chopped Dried Apricots: These bring a lovely chewiness and a subtle fruity sweetness.
Beyond solid mix-ins, you can also enhance the aroma and flavor of your banana bread with extracts. A teaspoon of vanilla extract is a classic choice that deepens the overall flavor, while almond extract can introduce a sophisticated, slightly marzipan-like note. Feel free to explore these options to tailor your spelt banana bread to your personal preferences.
Mastering the Art of Spelt Banana Bread: Step-by-Step Instructions
Baking this delightful quick spelt banana bread is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a perfect loaf every time:
- Prepare Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (177°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for even baking from the moment your bread enters.
- Measure Dry Ingredients: Using a reliable food scale, accurately measure your spelt flour, sugar, and chopped walnuts. Set these aside in a bowl for later. Precision in measuring dry ingredients is vital for the bread’s texture.
- Mash the Bananas: In a separate bowl, mash the ripe bananas until they are smooth and free of large lumps. A potato masher works wonderfully for this, or you can use a sturdy fork.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the milk, egg, and melted butter to the mashed bananas. Whisk these wet ingredients together thoroughly until well combined.
- Mix Wet and Dry: In a large bowl, combine the measured spelt flour, walnuts, sugar, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Gently stir these dry ingredients together. Then, pour the wet banana mixture into the large bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir just enough to moisten all the flour. Remember, overmixing can lead to a tough bread, so stop as soon as the ingredients are combined.
- Prepare the Loaf Pan: Lightly spray an 8×4-inch metal baking pan with your chosen cooking oil spray. Transfer the banana bread batter into the prepared pan and use the back of a spoon or a spatula to spread it into an even layer.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the loaf pan on an oven rack, positioned approximately one-third of the way down from the top of the oven. Bake for 45-55 minutes at 350°F (177°C). Baking times may vary slightly based on your oven and pan material.
- Test for Doneness: To confirm your banana bread is fully baked, insert a toothpick into the very center of the loaf. The toothpick should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached. If it comes out with wet batter, continue baking in 5-10 minute increments.
- Cool Before Slicing: Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before attempting to slice and serve. Cooling allows the bread to set and prevents it from crumbling.
Troubleshooting: Why Does My Spelt Bread Not Rise?
It can be disheartening when your delicious spelt banana bread doesn’t rise as expected. Several factors could contribute to this issue:
- Overmixing the Batter: As mentioned, overmixing develops gluten, which creates a dense, chewy texture and inhibits a good rise. Stir only until the dry ingredients are just incorporated into the wet.
- Expired Baking Soda: Baking soda loses its potency over time. Always check the expiration date, or test its freshness by mixing a small amount with vinegar; it should bubble vigorously.
- Excess Moisture: Too much liquid in the batter can weigh down the bread and prevent it from rising. This is why using fresh, very ripe bananas is crucial; previously frozen bananas can release excessive water when thawed.
Does Spelt Flour Require More Water?
Contrary to popular belief, spelt flour generally does not require more water than other flours. In fact, many bakers find that recipes using spelt flour may even need slightly *less* liquid compared to recipes that call for whole wheat flour. If you notice your spelt baked goods are consistently too moist, some sources suggest reducing the liquid content in the recipe by about 25% for optimal results. Always pay attention to the consistency of your batter and adjust as needed.
Knowing When Your Spelt Banana Bread is Perfectly Done
Achieving a perfectly baked banana bread means hitting that sweet spot where it’s cooked through, moist, and flavorful, without being dry or gummy. Here’s how to tell when your spelt banana bread is done:
- Visual Cues: A fully baked banana bread will have a beautiful golden-brown crust. You’ll often see cracks forming along the top of the loaf, which is a classic sign of doneness.
- The Toothpick Test: This is the most reliable method. Gently insert a clean wooden toothpick into the very center of the loaf. If the toothpick comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached, your bread is ready. If it comes out with wet batter, it needs more time in the oven.
- Firmness: Lightly press the top of the loaf. It should feel firm and spring back slightly. If it feels overly soft or sinks in, it likely needs more baking time.
How to Rectify Undercooked Banana Bread
Don’t despair if your toothpick test reveals an undercooked center! Fixing undercooked banana bread is relatively simple. Just return the loaf to your preheated 350°F (177°C) oven. Check it every 5-10 minutes, depending on how underdone it appeared, until the toothpick comes out clean. Be mindful not to overbake it during this stage.
Storage Solutions: How Long Does Spelt Bread Last?
Proper storage is key to keeping your homemade spelt banana bread fresh and delicious. Here’s how to ensure it lasts as long as possible:
- Room Temperature: Banana bread should not be left out at room temperature for more than 1-2 hours, especially in warmer climates, due to its moisture content.
- Refrigeration: For optimal freshness, wrap your spelt banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or store it in an airtight container. When refrigerated, it can last for 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, banana bread freezes beautifully. Once completely cooled, wrap individual slices or the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently warm slices in a toaster oven.
Delightful Pairings: What Goes Great with Banana Bread?
This spelt banana bread is so wonderfully moist and flavorful that it truly shines on its own. You might find you don’t even need a spread like butter, maple syrup, or honey. However, if you’re looking to elevate your experience or create a more substantial meal, there are many fantastic foods that complement its rich flavor:
- For Breakfast or Brunch:
- Air Fryer Eggs: A quick and healthy protein source.
- Sausage Patties in Air Fryer: Savory and satisfying alongside the sweet bread.
- Air Fryer Canadian Bacon: Another lean and flavorful protein option.
- Instant Pot Almond Milk Yogurt: A creamy, tangy contrast that also adds probiotics.
- Healthy Toppings:
- Nut Butter: A drizzle of peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter adds healthy fats and protein, making it more filling.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: For a more decadent treat, a light cream cheese frosting can turn it into a dessert.
- Fresh Fruit: A side of berries, sliced apples, or a fruit salad adds freshness and extra vitamins.
- Beverages:
- A cup of hot coffee or tea.
- A refreshing glass of milk (dairy or non-dairy).
Understanding Spelt Flour Nutrition: A Healthy Choice
Choosing spelt flour for your baking offers significant nutritional advantages. Spelt is an ancient grain rich in fiber, protein, and essential minerals, making it a healthier alternative to many refined flours. Here’s a general overview of the nutrition information for ¼ cup (33g) of spelt flour:
- Calories: 110
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 24g
- Fiber: 5g
- Net Carbs: 19g
- Protein: 4g
- Iron: 4% DV
- Calcium: 0% DV
- Potassium: 150mg
Frequently Asked Questions About Spelt Banana Bread
How to make spelt banana cake?
Transforming this recipe into a banana cake is quite simple. You can find a highly-rated whole wheat banana cake recipe here. To make a delicious spelt banana cake, merely substitute spelt flour for the whole wheat flour in that recipe. This easy swap allows you to enjoy the nutty flavor and nutritional benefits of spelt in a cake form.
How to make vegan spelt banana bread?
Making this spelt banana bread vegan is straightforward with a few simple substitutions. Replace regular butter with an equal amount of vegan butter or coconut oil. For the dairy milk, use any non-dairy milk such as almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk. Instead of a large egg, incorporate a “flax egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, allowed to sit for 5 minutes until gel-like). If you’re concerned about sugar processing (which sometimes involves bone char filters), opt for organic cane sugar or coconut sugar as an alternative to white sugar.
How to make spelt flour banana muffins?
To enjoy spelt flour banana muffins, you can easily adapt this loaf recipe. A great starting point is my recipe for Air Fryer Banana Muffins, which is already designed with spelt flour. That recipe card also includes conventional oven directions, so you can make them even if you don’t own an air fryer. Simply adjust baking times for smaller muffin tins, usually around 18-25 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
Do you need baking powder with spelt flour?
Yes, spelt flour is not a self-rising flour, meaning it requires a leavening agent to achieve a light and airy texture. For quick breads like banana bread, you will need either baking powder or baking soda (or both, depending on the recipe’s acidity) to make it rise. The only exception would be if you are making an unleavened spelt bread, such as pita bread or flatbread, which by definition does not use leavening agents.
Can I substitute spelt flour for regular flour?
You can often substitute spelt flour for all-purpose (regular) flour, especially in quick bread recipes. However, be aware that it will impart its characteristic nutty, slightly sweet flavor to the recipe, altering the taste. If you’re replacing all-purpose flour with whole grain spelt flour, you’ll also gain significant fiber and nutrient benefits. For recipes where you want a lighter flavor or texture, or if you’re new to spelt, it might be best to start by substituting only half of the white flour with spelt flour to gradually adjust to the taste and baking properties.
Is spelt flour gluten free?
It is important to clarify that spelt flour is not gluten-free. Spelt is, in fact, an ancient variety of wheat and therefore contains gluten. While some individuals with non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) may find spelt to be slightly easier to digest than modern wheat, it is absolutely not suitable for those with celiac disease or a diagnosed gluten allergy. For these individuals, a truly gluten-free flour alternative is necessary.
Explore More Delicious Spelt Flour Recipes
Once you’ve experienced the wonderful flavor and texture that spelt flour brings to baking, you’ll likely want to incorporate it into more of your culinary creations. Here are some other fantastic spelt flour in baking recipes to inspire your next kitchen adventure. I’m confident you’ll be hooked!
- Spelt Flour Pizza Dough Recipe: Create a healthier, flavorful pizza crust.
- Spelt Flour Sourdough Recipe for Bread: Dive into the world of sourdough with the unique taste of spelt.
- Sugar Free Apple Crisp: A wholesome dessert that showcases spelt’s versatility.
Watch How to Make It!
Spelt Flour Banana Bread Recipe (Spelt Quick Bread)
Summer Yule
Print Recipe
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Ingredients
- 1 cup spelt flour 132 grams
- 2 medium bananas, mashed (overripe)
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts 28 grams
- 2 tablespoons sugar 24 grams
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- pinch of salt (optional)
- cooking oil spray of choice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Measure the spelt flour, sugar, and chopped walnuts using a food scale. Set aside for now.
- Mash the ripe bananas until smooth using a potato masher or a fork.
- Mix the mashed bananas, milk, egg, and melted butter together in a medium bowl.
- Mix the spelt flour, walnuts, sugar, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt together in a large bowl. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir just enough to moisten all the flour. Don’t overmix!
- Spray an 8×4-inch metal baking pan (20.3cm x 10.2cm) with cooking spray. Put the banana bread batter in the tin, and spread mixture into an even layer with the back of a spoon.
- Put the loaf pan on an oven rack ⅓ down from the top of the oven. Bake the banana bread for 45-55 minutes at 350°F (177°C).
- Test the banana bread for doneness with a toothpick. A toothpick inserted into the center of the banana bread should come out clean or with small crumbs.
- Let the banana bread cool before slicing and serving.
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Equipment
- Food Scale
- Potato Masher
- 8×4 Loaf Pan
- Toothpicks
Notes
💭 Expert Tips from Dietitian Summer Yule
This is a level 3 recipe (weight maintenance and active lifestyles). If you’ve been here a while, you know all recipes with flour get the bump to level 3.
That said, this spelt banana bread recipe has some good things going for it. For example, it’s a healthier option than a cupcake since it contains only whole grains. Use granular Swerve in place of sugar to make it no sugar added as well.
Many Americans eat excessive amounts of refined grains at the expense of more nutrient-rich foods. Grain-based desserts and bread are the top two sources of calories in the American diet. Though switching from refined grains to whole grains doesn’t cut calories, it does help shift you to an overall healthier eating pattern.
Extend this out into a full breakfast by adding plain Greek yogurt (calcium! protein!) plus some orange slices. You can also drizzle banana bread with peanut butter (healthy fat!). The nutrition info below is for the bread only; additions to your meal will alter the calorie count and other information.
Can diabetics eat spelt flour? If you’re using low carb or keto to manage your blood sugar in diabetes, spelt is not a good fit. If you’re using the carb exchange system, you can fit very small portions of grains, including spelt, in your diet.
One yummy option for making banana bread that’s more macro-friendly is the Naked Bake Protein Banana Bread Mix. This protein powder-based mix is certified gluten free and has 14 grams net carbs (17g total carbohydrates) and 15 grams protein per serving. You can buy it on Amazon here.
Nutrition information is for one serving.
nutrition info disclaimer
All recipes on this website may or may not be appropriate for you, depending on your medical needs and personal preferences. Consult with a registered dietitian or your physician if you need help determining the dietary pattern that may be best for you.
The nutrition information is an estimate provided as a courtesy. It will differ depending on the specific brands and ingredients that you use. Calorie information on food labels may be inaccurate, so please don’t sweat the numbers too much.
“To taste” means to your preferences, which may have to be visual to follow food safety rules. Please don’t eat undercooked food x
Nutrition
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