Healthy Banana Bread

Healthy Banana Bread is a moist and fluffy loaf made with ripe bananas, light sugars, and a touch of cinnamon. This easy homemade recipe is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or meal prep, offering a naturally sweet flavor with less fat and sugar than traditional versions. Ideal for anyone looking for a quick, wholesome baked treat.

Ingredients

• 4 ripe bananas (about 1⅓ cups / 320 g), mashed
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (15 ml)
• 3 tablespoons light brown sugar (38 g)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (25 g)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (2.6 g)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder (4 g)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda (5 g)
• ½ teaspoon salt (2.5 g)
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour or white whole wheat flour (180 g)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (28 g) or 2 tablespoons applesauce (30 g)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the pan:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix wet ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Add the egg, vanilla extract, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Stir well until combined.
3. Combine dry ingredients:
   In a separate small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Make the batter:
   Add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing. Gently fold in the melted butter (or applesauce).
5. Bake:
   Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool:
   Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas for a healthier twist.
• Soft, moist, and full of flavor with minimal added sugar.
• Simple ingredients and easy to make in one bowl.
• Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or meal prep.

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Tips

• Use very ripe bananas (with brown spots) for the best sweetness and texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter—this keeps the bread light and tender.
• Line your loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Check for doneness around 35 minutes, as oven times may vary.
• Let it cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Substitute applesauce for butter to make it lower in fat.
• Add ½ cup chopped nuts, dark chocolate chips, or blueberries for extra flavor.
• Replace part of the flour with oat flour for added fiber.
• Swap brown sugar for coconut sugar for a less refined option.
• Make it gluten-free using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

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FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) and use applesauce instead of butter.

How should I store banana bread?
Keep it covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Slice and wrap the bread tightly, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave.

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Serving

Serve banana bread warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious plain or spread with nut butter, Greek yogurt, or a drizzle of honey.

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Suggestions

• Turn leftovers into banana bread French toast or breakfast parfaits.
• Serve with coffee or tea for a cozy morning treat.
• Add a sprinkle of oats or cinnamon sugar on top before baking for extra texture.