Banana Bread (Whole Wheat)

The deliciously moist banana bread is a comforting treat that delights the senses.

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup melted butter or vegetable oil

• 1/2 cup honey

• 2 eggs

• 1 cup mashed bananas

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, plus more to swirl on top

• 1 3/4 cups whole wheat pastry flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/4 cup hot water

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (165 degrees Celsius) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.

2. In a large bowl, beat the oil and honey together. Add the eggs and beat well.

3. Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract, then add the salt and cinnamon.

4. Gently stir in the whole wheat pastry flour until just combined.

5. In a separate small bowl, mix the baking soda with hot water and then briefly mix it into the batter until evenly distributed.

6. Spread the batter into the greased loaf pan.

7. Sprinkle additional cinnamon on top and swirl with a toothpick or the tip of a butter knife for a marbled effect.

8. Bake for 60 to 65 minutes. Check for doneness using a toothpick; it should come out clean.

9. Let the bread cool in the loaf pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool for 30 minutes before slicing.