Banana bread is a timeless classic that brings comfort and warmth to any kitchen. However, traditional recipes often include generous amounts of sugar and butter, which can make it a less-than-ideal choice for those watching their calorie intake.
That’s why this Cooking Light Banana Bread Recipe is a game-changer. It’s moist, flavorful, and wonderfully satisfying without the heaviness.
Using ripe bananas, wholesome ingredients, and healthier substitutes, you can enjoy a slice (or two!) guilt-free. Whether you’re baking for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert, this lighter version won’t disappoint.
Plus, it’s easy enough for beginners and adaptable to suit your taste buds. Ready to bake a delicious loaf that’s both nourishing and indulgent?
Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This banana bread recipe is perfect for anyone seeking a healthier option without sacrificing taste or texture. It uses minimal oil and natural sweeteners to keep calories low while maintaining that classic moist crumb we all adore.
The bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, eliminating the need for excessive sugar or butter.
It’s also incredibly versatile—feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to customize your loaf. The recipe is quick to prepare and bakes to golden perfection in under an hour, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
And if you love other light and wholesome recipes, don’t miss out on our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious or try our Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping for more healthy meal inspiration.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (acts as oil substitute)
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup (natural sweetener)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional but recommended)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Fork or potato masher (for mashing bananas)
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- 9×5 inch loaf pan
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Cooling rack
- Oven
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper or spraying it lightly with non-stick spray.
- Mash the bananas in a large bowl using a fork or potato masher until smooth but with some small lumps remaining for texture.
- Add the wet ingredients: stir in the applesauce, honey (or maple syrup), eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients:</strong whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture using a rubber spatula. Mix just until incorporated—do not overmix, or your bread may turn out dense.
- Fold in nuts and/or chocolate chips if using. These add a lovely crunch and extra flavor but are totally optional.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with the spatula.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
- Remove the bread from the oven and cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips & Variations
Tip: Be sure to use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
Variation: Swap whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour for a lighter texture, or try half oat flour for added fiber.
Nut-Free Option: Omit nuts and add 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead for crunch.
Vegan Adaptation: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use maple syrup instead of honey.
Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger for a warm twist.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Slice (12 slices) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Fat | 4.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 27 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 10 g (natural sugars) |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This light banana bread is delicious on its own or enhanced with a few simple accompaniments. Try spreading a thin layer of almond butter or natural peanut butter for a protein boost and creamy texture.
A dollop of Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt on the side adds a tangy contrast and extra moisture.
For a breakfast treat, toast a slice lightly and top with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or blueberries. It also pairs wonderfully with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea to brighten up your morning or afternoon break.
If you love wholesome baked goods, check out our Berry Cobbler Recipe Vegan: Easy, Delicious, and Healthy or explore the Best Vegan Cheese Scone Recipe for Fluffy, Tasty Bakes for more delightful treats.
Conclusion
This Cooking Light Banana Bread Recipe strikes the perfect balance between health and indulgence, making it an excellent addition to your baking repertoire. It’s simple, quick, and uses wholesome ingredients that you likely already have at home.
Best of all, it’s flexible—allowing you to tailor it to your preferences and dietary needs without losing any deliciousness.
Whether you’re baking for your family, sharing with friends, or just treating yourself, this banana bread will satisfy those sweet cravings while keeping things light and nutritious. Don’t forget to bookmark this recipe and explore more healthy options like our Black Bean Rice Burger Recipe Vegan Made Easy and Delicious to keep your kitchen vibrant and your meals exciting!
📖 Recipe Card: Cooking Light Banana Bread
Description: A healthier take on classic banana bread using light ingredients for a moist and flavorful treat. Perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT50M
Total Time: PT65M
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, brown sugar, applesauce, egg whites, vanilla, and Greek yogurt.
- In another bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Fold in walnuts if using.
- Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 3 g | Carbs: 35 g
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