Healthier Banana Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This banana bread recipe balances natural sweetness from bananas with nutrient-rich flours and minimal added sugars. It’s easy to make, perfect for breakfast or snack, and customizable with nuts, seeds, or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed

• 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey

• 2 large eggs

• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or applesauce

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour or oat flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, maple syrup, eggs, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

3. In another bowl, whisk whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in nuts or chocolate chips if using.

5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

6. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Let cool before slicing.

Servings and timing

Makes 8-10 slices
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Substitute whole wheat flour with almond or coconut flour for gluten-free options (adjust liquid accordingly).

• Add mashed pumpkin or zucchini for extra moisture and nutrition.

• Use flax or chia eggs for vegan-friendly baking.

• Sprinkle oats or nuts on top before baking for texture.

• Mix in dried fruit like raisins or cranberries.

storage/reheating

Store banana bread wrapped in foil or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven.

FAQs

Can I use overripe bananas?

Yes, overripe bananas are ideal for sweetness and moisture.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Use dairy-free yogurt to make it dairy-free.

Can I freeze banana bread?

Yes, freeze wrapped tightly for up to 3 months.

Can I make muffins instead?

Yes, bake in muffin tins for 18-22 minutes.

How do I keep banana bread moist?

Avoid overbaking and store properly.

Can I add protein powder?

Yes, add to dry ingredients for extra protein.

Are nuts necessary?

No, nuts are optional and can be omitted.

Can I substitute eggs?

Use flax or chia eggs for vegan options.

How long does banana bread last?

Best within a week refrigerated or 3 days at room temperature.

Can I use white flour?

Yes, but whole wheat adds more fiber and nutrition.

Conclusion

Healthier Banana Bread is a delicious, nutritious take on a classic comfort food. With natural sweetness and wholesome ingredients, it’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert without the guilt. Easy to customize and packed with flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Healthier Banana Bread

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Healthier Banana Bread is a moist, flavorful loaf made with wholesome ingredients and less sugar than traditional recipes. Packed with ripe bananas, whole grains, and optional add-ins, this bread offers a guilt-free way to enjoy a classic favorite.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 8-10 slices
• Category: Breakfast, Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1. 3 ripe bananas, mashed
   
   1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
   
   2 large eggs
   
   1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or applesauce
   
   1 teaspoon vanilla extract
   
   1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour or oat flour
   
   1 teaspoon baking soda
   
   1/2 teaspoon baking powder
   
   1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
   
   1/4 teaspoon salt
   
   Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper.

1. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, maple syrup, eggs, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. In another bowl, whisk whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in nuts or chocolate chips if using.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool before slicing.

Notes

1. Substitute whole wheat flour with almond or coconut flour for gluten-free options (adjust liquid accordingly).
2. Add mashed pumpkin or zucchini for extra moisture and nutrition.
3. Use flax or chia eggs for vegan-friendly baking.
4. Sprinkle oats or nuts on top before baking for texture.
5. Mix in dried fruit like raisins or cranberries.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: Approx. 180
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 35mg