Healthy Banana Bread

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This banana bread is easy to make and uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. It’s naturally sweetened, lower in refined sugar, and still incredibly soft and flavorful. It’s a great way to use up overripe bananas while enjoying a homemade treat you can feel good about serving.

Ingredients

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

ripe bananas
whole wheat flour
baking soda
salt
eggs
honey or maple syrup
coconut oil or olive oil
vanilla extract
plain yogurt or Greek yogurt

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease or line a loaf pan.

2. Mash the ripe bananas in a large bowl until smooth.

3. Whisk in the eggs, honey or maple syrup, oil, vanilla extract, and yogurt until well combined.

4. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt.

5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

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

7. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan briefly before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes one loaf, serving about 8 to 10 slices.
Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes.
Baking time is 45 to 55 minutes.
Total time is about 1 hour.

Variations

You can add chopped nuts, dark chocolate chips, or seeds for extra texture. Replacing half of the flour with oat flour creates a softer crumb. Adding cinnamon or nutmeg enhances the warm flavor. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based yogurt.

Storage/Reheating

Store healthy banana bread tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to one week. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm slices gently in the microwave or toaster oven.

FAQs

Is this banana bread really healthy?

It uses whole grains and natural sweeteners, making it a healthier alternative to traditional versions.

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

Yes, all-purpose flour works, though it will be slightly less hearty.

How ripe should the bananas be?

Very ripe bananas with brown spots provide the best sweetness and flavor.

Can I make this banana bread vegan?

Yes, substitute eggs with flax eggs and use maple syrup and plant-based yogurt.

Why is my banana bread dense?

Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense texture.

Can I reduce the sweetener?

Yes, especially if your bananas are very ripe.

Does this recipe work as muffins?

Yes, divide the batter into a muffin tin and reduce baking time.

Can I add protein powder?

Yes, but replace a small portion of the flour to maintain texture.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but bake in two separate loaf pans for best results.

Conclusion

Healthy banana bread is a simple, comforting bake that proves nutritious recipes can still be delicious. With its moist texture and natural sweetness, it’s a dependable recipe you’ll enjoy making and sharing again and again.

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