I’ve made plenty of banana bread but this one wins the cake! (No pun intended). Super simple recipe that took about 15 minutes to prepare. An hour of baking later and I was clearly very satisfied.
As a healthy ingredient chef, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that not only taste great but also offer nutritional benefits.
One of my favorite go-to recipes is a Healthy Banana Bread with No Sugar Added.
This banana bread is moist, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients that will satisfy your sweet tooth without the need for added sugars. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a guilt-free treat.
Wet Ingredients
- 2 eggs
- 80 grams melted butter
- 2 mashed bananas
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup of pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
Dry Ingredients
- 230 grams flour
- 1/8 tsp cinnamon (a little more won’t hurt)
- 1/8 tsp cardamom (a little more won’t hurt)
- Pinch salt (season to taste)
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
All dry ingredients went through a sift to get out any clumps.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F. Butter a 9×5 inch loaf pan (I love this ceramic Caraway loaf pan from Amazon) or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mash the bananas in a large mixing bowl until smooth. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas eliminates the need for added sugar.
- Incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, fold-in just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense bread.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it.
- Cool the banana bread in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack (grab here from Amazon) to cool completely.
Watch this Recipe Cooked Step-by-Step
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What other additional ingredients would pair well with this banana bread recipe?
Adding mix-ins to banana bread can elevate its flavor and texture, making it even more enjoyable. Here are some popular add-ons that people love to incorporate into their banana bread recipes:
- Nuts:
- Walnuts: Add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Pecans: Offer a slightly sweeter, buttery taste.
- Almonds: Provide a mild, nutty flavor and a good crunch.
- Chocolate:
- Dark Chocolate Chips: For a rich, slightly bitter contrast to the sweetness of the bananas.
- Milk Chocolate Chips: For a sweeter, creamier chocolate taste.
- White Chocolate Chips: Add a sweet, creamy element that pairs well with bananas.
- Dried Fruits:
- Raisins: Add natural sweetness and a chewy texture.
- Dried Cranberries: Provide a tart contrast to the sweet banana flavor.
- Dried Apricots: For a slightly tangy and sweet addition.
- Seeds:
- Chia Seeds: Add a slight crunch and boost of nutrition.
- Flaxseeds: Provide fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Sunflower Seeds: Offer a nutty flavor and crunchy texture.
- Spices:
- Cinnamon: Enhances the flavor with a warm, sweet-spicy note.
- Nutmeg: Adds a slightly sweet, nutty flavor.
- Ginger: Provides a warm, slightly spicy kick.
- Coconut:
- Shredded Coconut: Adds a tropical flavor and chewy texture.
- Coconut Flakes: Offer a bit more texture and a stronger coconut flavor.
- Fresh Fruits:
- Blueberries: Add bursts of juiciness and sweetness.
- Raspberries: Provide a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the bananas.
- Apple Chunks: Offer a sweet and slightly tart flavor with a bit of crunch.
- Yogurt:
- Adding a dollop of Greek yogurt can make the banana bread extra moist and add a slight tangy flavor.
- Citrus Zest:
- Orange Zest: Adds a fresh, zesty flavor.
- Lemon Zest: Provides a bright, tangy note.
- Honey or Maple Syrup Drizzle:
- Drizzle on top before serving for added sweetness and a lovely presentation.
Feel free to mix and match these add-ons to create your own unique banana bread masterpiece. Experimenting with different combinations can lead to delightful new flavors and textures that make your banana bread truly special.
Is Banana Bread Healthy?
Banana bread can be a healthy option depending on the ingredients used. Here are some factors to consider:
Health Benefits
- Bananas: Rich in potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Provides more fiber and nutrients compared to refined flour.
- Natural Sweeteners: Using ripe bananas, applesauce, maple syrup or honey can reduce the need for added sugar.
- Healthy Fats: Using coconut oil or Greek yogurt can provide healthy fats and proteins.
Potential Health Concerns
- Added Sugar: Traditional recipes may call for a lot of sugar, which can increase calorie content and affect blood sugar levels.
- Refined Flour: Using white flour provides less fiber and nutrients.
- High-Calorie Add-ins: Chocolate chips, nuts, or sweetened dried fruits can increase calorie content.
Making Healthier Banana Bread
To make a healthier version of banana bread, consider the following tips:
- Reduce Sugar: Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and cut down on added sugars.
- Use Whole Grains: Replace refined flour with whole wheat flour or a mix of whole grains.
- Healthy Fats: Substitute butter with coconut oil or Greek yogurt.
- Add Nutrients: Incorporate nuts, seeds, or flaxseed for added protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
- Control Portions: Enjoy banana bread in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Banana bread can be a healthy option if made with nutritious ingredients and consumed in moderation. Opt for recipes that minimize added sugars and refined ingredients while maximizing fiber and nutrient content. This approach ensures you can enjoy a delicious and wholesome treat without compromising your health goals.
For more delicious recipes from Chef Dominique Harris, follow her on social media
