Description
Here’s how you can create delicious and healthier banana bread recipes at home by modifying traditional ingredients and incorporating nutrient-dense additions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 large eggs (or flaxseed egg substitute for vegan)
- 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce (as a substitute for butter)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour or almond flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts, seeds, or dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas, eggs, applesauce, and honey until well combined.
- Add the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gently fold the ingredients until just combined.
- Mix in optional add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool for 10–15 minutes before removing it from the pan.
Notes
Quick Tips for Healthier Banana Bread
- Add More Fiber: Include flaxseed meal, chia seeds, or oats in the batter.
- Lower the Sugar: Rely more on the natural sweetness of bananas by reducing or omitting added sugar.
- Increase Protein: Add a scoop of protein powder or Greek yogurt to the batter for a protein boost.
- Use Spices: Enhance flavor without calories by adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract.
- Bake Mini Loaves: Smaller portions help with portion control and make freezing easier.
Healthier Add-Ins for Banana Bread
- Fruits: Blueberries, diced apples, or raisins for natural sweetness and nutrients.
- Nuts and Seeds: Walnuts, pecans, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds for healthy fats and crunch.
- Superfoods: Add a tablespoon of cacao powder or matcha for an antioxidant boost.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 120–150
- Sugar: 8g–12g (natural sugars from honey and bananas)
- Sodium: 150mg–200mg
- Fat: 3g–5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g–1g
- Carbohydrates: 20g–25g
- Fiber: 2g–3g
- Protein: 3g–4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg–30mg (lower for vegan recipes)
Keywords: banana bread