Healthy Banana Bread Recipe

 Healthy Banana Bread


 

With this wholesome banana bread recipe, you’re just a few simple ingredients away from enjoying the most delicious banana bread! This version is made with whole wheat flour and naturally sweetened with honey or maple syrup.

Want to brighten someone’s day? Bake them some banana bread! Recently, when I mentioned, "I’m going to make banana bread," I saw an instant spark of joy, like a kid spotting gifts on Christmas morning.

Banana bread is that beloved classic—an American favorite that fills the home with warmth and comfort. This particular recipe yields one loaf, with about ten slices, and can easily be made vegan or gluten-free (see notes for details).

Ingredients

  • ⅓ cup melted coconut oil or extra-virgin olive oil
  • ½ cup honey or maple syrup
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2½ medium or 2 large)
  • ¼ cup milk of choice or water
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (extra to sprinkle on top)
  • 1¾ cups whole wheat flour (or white whole wheat)

Optional mix-ins: ½ cup chopped walnuts, pecans, chocolate chips, or dried fruit.

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the oil and honey. Add the eggs and beat well, then stir in the mashed bananas and milk.
  3. Add baking soda, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon, and blend. Switch to a large spoon, add flour, and stir until just combined (some lumps are fine). If using any mix-ins, gently fold them in.
  4. Pour batter into the pan, sprinkle with cinnamon, and create a swirl with a knife if desired.
  5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool the bread in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack.

Storage Tips

Store at room temperature for 2-3 days, in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to three months.

Recipe Adaptations

  • Vegan: Substitute honey with maple syrup and eggs with flax eggs; use non-dairy milk.
  • Dairy-Free: Use non-dairy milk.
  • Egg-Free: Replace eggs with flax eggs.
  • Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free blend like Bob’s Red Mill or oat flour.
  • Lower Fat: Replace oil with applesauce if preferred.

Enjoy this hearty, flavorful banana bread that’s perfect for any time of day!

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size 1 slice
Serves 10
Amount Per Serving
Calories233
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 8.9g11%
Saturated Fat 6.5g
Trans Fat 0g
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.6g
Monounsaturated Fat 0.9g0%
Cholesterol 37.7mg13%
Sodium 260.6mg11%
Total Carbohydrate 36.3g13%
Dietary Fiber 3.1g11%
Sugars 18g
Protein 4.6g9%
  • Vitamin A2%
  • Vitamin C3%
  • Calcium2%
  • Iron6%
  • Vitamin D2%
  • Magnesium9%
  • Potassium5%
  • Zinc7%
  • Phosphorus9%
  • Thiamin (B1)10%
  • Riboflavin (B2)9%
  • Niacin (B3)8%
  • Vitamin B613%
  • Folic Acid (B9)5%
  • Vitamin B125%
  • Vitamin E2%
  • Vitamin K1%

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