Vegan Banana Bread Focaccia: A Unique Twist on Sweet and Savory
Delight your taste buds with banana bread focaccia, a unique fusion of sweet and savory flavors. Combining the moist sweetness of banana bread with the airy crispness of focaccia, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Crafted with cinnamon, walnuts, and a golden crust, it's a creative twist on traditional banana bread recipes.
Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Cast-iron skillet
Ingredients
- 2 cups bread flour
- 1 cup whole-wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup water
- 2 medium very ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup), divided
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil divided
- ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts plus 4 walnut halves for topping
- ½ teaspoon flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Mix the dough: Combine flours, yeast, and salt in a stand mixer. Add water and half the mashed banana. Beat on low until a shaggy dough forms. Cover and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Knead and rest: Knead the dough on medium speed until soft and tacky, about 6-7 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and knead to incorporate. Cover and let rest 15 minutes.
- Prepare the filling: Mix the brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, walnuts, and remaining half cup of mashed banana in a small bowl.
- Fill the dough: Stretch the rested dough into a square. Place half the banana mixture in the center, fold up the edges, and pinch to seal. Transfer the dough seam-side down to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for 8-24 hours.
- Shape and proof: One hour before baking, coat a 10-inch cast-iron skillet with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Gently stretch the dough to fill the pan, pressing out air bubbles. Let rise at room temperature for 1 hour.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 450°F. Dimple the dough, spread the remaining banana mixture on top, and arrange walnut halves. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden. Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Use overripe bananas for extra sweetness and better texture. Overnight fermentation enhances flavor complexity and texture. Add chocolate chips for a more indulgent twist.