Name: Chia Seed Banana Bread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 extra ripe bananas; 2 eggs, room temperature; ½ cup maple syrup; ⅓ cup vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup Greek yogurt, room temperature; 2 cups all purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon chia seeds; Additional chia seeds for sprinkling

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 1 review

If you’re seeking a deliciously moist and wholesome treat, this Chia Seed Banana Bread Recipe is just what you need. With ripe bananas lending natural sweetness, the subtle crunch of chia seeds, and a boost of protein from Greek yogurt, this bread is a perfect union of hearty nutrition and satisfying flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy breakfast, a midday snack, or a comforting dessert, this loaf combines simple ingredients to create a magical texture and an inviting aroma that’s impossible to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a thick, pale beige batter that has a slightly lumpy texture. The batter is speckled with many small black dots scattered evenly throughout. The rim of the bowl has a few drops of batter stuck to it, showing a creamy consistency. The overall look is simple and natural, focusing on the smooth batter inside the transparent bowl photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the balance of flavors and textures right in this chia seed banana bread is all about choosing essential, straightforward ingredients that shine together. Each item plays its own vital role, from adding moisture and binding the loaf to creating fluffy crumb and that irresistible banana taste.

3 ripe bananas: The star of the bread, providing natural sweetness and moisture for that tender crumb.
2 eggs: Help bind the ingredients and add richness; room temperature eggs mix better for a smoother batter.
½ cup maple syrup: Adds a gentle sweetness and depth of flavor without overpowering the bananas.
⅓ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and soft, ensuring it doesn’t dry out during baking.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the natural sweetness and rounds out flavor with a warm, floral note.
½ cup Greek yogurt: Adds tanginess and contributes to the bread’s moist texture while increasing protein content.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The structure of the bread, make sure it’s measured carefully for perfect texture.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Assists the bread in rising, giving it a light and airy feel.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidity in bananas and yogurt to ensure a tender crumb.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
1 tablespoon chia seeds: Adds a subtle crunch and a nutritional boost with fiber and omega-3s.

How to Make Chia Seed Banana Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a loaf pan or lining it with parchment paper. This step is essential to make sure your yummy bread doesn’t stick and comes out in one perfect piece.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth. Leaving a few clumps adds a nice texture contrast without overpowering the overall softness of the bread.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, maple syrup, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and Greek yogurt to the mashed bananas. Whisk these together vigorously until everything is thoroughly combined, forming a luscious, cohesive base for your batter.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents and seasoning are evenly distributed, preventing any clumpy pockets in your loaf.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and gently fold with a rubber spatula until about 90% combined. Then fold in the chia seeds carefully so that the batter stays light and no dry flour streaks remain.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle additional chia seeds on top for a pretty, crunchy finish. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling that the bread is perfectly cooked.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing so that the texture sets beautifully. Now your chia seed banana bread is ready to delight!

How to Serve Chia Seed Banana Bread Recipe

A loaf of banana bread is shown on crumpled parchment paper on a white marbled surface. The top of the whole loaf has a golden brown crust sprinkled with chia seeds, adding texture and small dark spots. Two slices lie in front of the loaf, showing a moist interior dotted with small brown and black specks from the banana and chia seeds. The edges of the slices are a darker brown, with a slightly crumbly texture. The overall look is warm and homemade, with a soft inside and a crisp top layer. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnish slices with a light spread of butter or a drizzle of honey for extra indulgence. Toasting the slices brings out a nuttier flavor and adds a gentle crispness that contrasts wonderfully with the moist crumb.

Side Dishes

This banana bread shines with a side of Greek yogurt topped with fresh berries, creating a refreshing counterbalance. A warm cup of coffee or tea complements the flavors perfectly, making it an ideal breakfast or afternoon treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For brunch gatherings, serve thick slices topped with ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of toasted nuts or a smear of nut butter. You can also cut the bread into cubes and create a delightful banana bread bread pudding by adding custard and baking it gently.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, wrap your chia seed banana bread tightly or store slices in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh and delicious for up to 3 to 5 days, making it perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this bread later, slice it, wrap each individually with cling wrap, and place in a freezer-safe bag. It keeps beautifully for up to 30 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw the slice at room temperature or microwave briefly for a freshly baked feel.

Reheating

Warm your banana bread slices in a toaster oven or microwave for 20 to 30 seconds to revive its softness and aroma. Adding a little butter right after warming can make it taste like it just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I substitute the vegetable oil with another fat?

Absolutely! You can use melted coconut oil or unsalted butter instead. Both will provide a rich flavor and keep your bread moist, though coconut oil adds a subtle tropical hint.

Are chia seeds essential in this recipe?

While chia seeds add a lovely crunch and nutritious boost, you can skip them if you don’t have any on hand or substitute with flaxseeds. However, including chia seeds truly makes this recipe special and unique.

How ripe should the bananas be?

Make sure the bananas are extra ripe with plenty of brown spots. That’s when they’re sweetest and provide the best flavor and moisture for your bread.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?

You can, but it may result in a denser loaf. For best texture, consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour to maintain a tender crumb and flavor balance.

Is this recipe suitable for breakfast?

Yes! Thanks to the bananas, Greek yogurt, and chia seeds, this bread offers nutritional benefits and energy for your morning. Enjoy it warm with your favorite beverage for a perfect start.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about homemade banana bread, and this Chia Seed Banana Bread Recipe elevates the classic by adding a playful texture and wholesome nutrition. I encourage you to try it soon—whether you’re baking for the family, a friend, or just yourself, this loaf will bring smiles, warmth, and that cozy homemade feeling you crave.