Banana bread is a classic comfort food, but traditional recipes can be loaded with sugar and unhealthy fats. This healthy banana bread recipe is packed with nutritious ingredients, making it a guilt-free treat that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Plus, it's incredibly easy to make.
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Why You Will Love This
- Nutritious Ingredients: This banana bread is made with whole wheat flour, providing dietary fiber that supports digestive health. The inclusion of Greek yogurt adds protein, promoting muscle maintenance and satiety.
- Natural Sweetness: Utilizing ripe bananas and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup reduces the need for refined sugars, offering a healthier alternative without compromising on taste.
- Healthy Fats: Ingredients such as coconut oil and optional additions like walnuts supply healthy fats, which are beneficial for heart health and help in maintaining balanced cholesterol levels.
- Customizable and Delicious: The recipe is versatile, allowing you to add your favorite mix-ins like dark chocolate chips or nuts, tailoring it to your taste preferences while maintaining its health benefits.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions and common kitchen equipment, this banana bread is simple to make, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers.
Healthy Banana Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup walnuts or dark chocolate chips (optional)
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Kitchen Equipment Needed
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan with coconut oil or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, eggs, honey (or maple syrup), melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing. Fold in walnuts or dark chocolate chips if using.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy.
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Health Benefits
This banana bread is loaded with nutrients! Bananas provide natural sweetness and potassium, whole wheat flour adds fiber, and Greek yogurt boosts protein content. Plus, coconut oil and walnuts provide healthy fats.
Helpful Tips
- Use ripe bananas: They’re sweeter and easier to mash.
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing can make the bread dense.
- Add-ins: Feel free to add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or seeds for extra flavor.
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- Matcha Extreme: Supports weight control and detoxification.
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- Probiosin Plus: Supports digestion and gut health.
- Fibre Select: A great addition to maintain a healthy digestive system.
See also: Delicious Air Fryer Chicken Flautas
FAQs
1. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour, but the texture may be slightly less dense and less fiber-rich.
2. How do I store banana bread?
Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months.
3. Can I make this banana bread vegan?
Yes! Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg), use maple syrup instead of honey, and opt for a plant-based yogurt.
4. What can I add for extra flavor?
Try adding nutmeg, shredded coconut, or dried fruit like raisins for additional texture and taste.
5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of whole wheat flour. Ensure your baking soda and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
This healthy banana bread recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a nutritious and delicious treat. Whether you're enjoying it for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, this guilt-free banana bread is sure to satisfy.
