Healthy Banana Bread (Naturally Sweetened)

Horizontal side view of sliced Healthy Banana Bread with sliced bananas on top

Healthy Banana Bread (Naturally Sweetened)

This Healthy Banana Bread recipe is naturally sweetened, made with whole grains, and is tender, moist, and absolutely delicious. No excuses are needed for snacking on this favorite treat. It's everything you love about banana bread-- without the guilt!

Prep Time10

Cook Time50

Total Time1

Servings: servings

Calories: 183kcal

Author: Stephanie Wilson

Ingredients

1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 3 bananas)
1/3 cup cooking oil (melted coconut oil, extra-virgin olive oil, vegetable oil)
1/2 cup maple syrup (or honey)
2 large eggs
1/4 cup milk (dairy, non-dairy, or water)
1/4 cup Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 3/4 cup whole wheat flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
pinch ground cloves or nutmeg (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F and coat a 8.5 x 4.5 loaf pan (or 9 x 5 inch pan) with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large bowl, mash the bananas. Then add the oil and maple syrup and combine. Add the eggs, milk, yogurt, and vanilla; whisk until fully combined.
Stir in the baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and optional spice (like cloves, nutmeg, etc). With a spoon or spatula, fold in the flour until just combined. Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan.
Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Depending on which loaf pan I use, my bread is usually done in about 52 minutes). Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool before slicing.

Notes

Storing the Bread

Cover and store at room temperature for 2 to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for 5 to 7 days. It also freezes well and can keep for up to 3 months. Consider freezing individual slices for quick, healthy snacks (I have some in my freezer now!)

Flour Alternatives

Instead of whole wheat flour, you can use white whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, whole wheat pastry flour, spelt flour, or gluten-free-all-purpose flour blend.

Nutrition