Back to School Banana Bread

It's THAT time!  

BACK TO SCHOOL!!!

And if you live anywhere besides New Jersey than your kiddos are probably already back in the classroom! 

When I think about Back to School treats, homemade cookies come to mind first...but I wanted something a bit healthier!  This banana bread is the perfect HEALTHY snack that is still a treat!  It's even great to put in your kids' lunch boxes or snack bags!

Your Shopping List for the Back to School Banana Bread:

• 3 very ripe bananas 
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup honey
• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• pinch of nutmeg
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips (optional) 

Now Let's Make the Banana Bread:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and grease two loaf pans (1 pound pans that measure 8 1/2 x 4 1/2)
2. In a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, combine bananas, applesauce, eggs, and honey
3. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg
4. Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet, mixing until combined (do not over mix)
5. Fold in chocolate chips
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans
7. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes (until top springs back when touched)
8. Cool bread in pans for 10 minutes
9. Turn bread out onto cooling racks to cool completely
10. Slice each loaf into 12 pieces 

I use two of these my gold touch loaf pans from Williams Sonoma to make this bread, and it comes out perfect every time!