This Whole Wheat Greek Yogurt Banana Bread offers a delicious and healthy twist on a classic, making it a perfect addition to your collection of Healthy Baking Recipes. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how satisfyingly moist each slice is.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Ripe Bananas: Essential for natural sweetness and moisture.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Provides a hearty texture and added fiber. All-purpose flour can be used as a substitute for a lighter texture.
- Greek Yogurt: Adds moisture and a tender crumb. Regular plain yogurt works as well.
- Sweetener: Maple syrup or honey are great choices. Granulated sugar can also be used.
- Eggs: Binds the ingredients together.
- Baking Soda & Powder: For leavening.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 3 ripe medium bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional:
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 60-70 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-55 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 (depending on optional additions)
- Tools Needed: 9×5 inch loaf pan, mixing bowls, whisk, spatula.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash your ripe bananas thoroughly. Stir in the Greek yogurt, maple syrup (or honey), egg, and vanilla extract until well combined and smooth.
3. Whisk Dry Ingredients Together
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, and ground cinnamon. Ensure there are no clumps.
4. Gently Mix Wet and Dry
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough banana bread.
5. Fold in Optional Add-ins
If you’re using walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips, gently fold them into the batter now. Distribute them evenly throughout the mixture.
6. Bake Your Banana Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and enjoying this delightful healthy baking recipe.
Variation Ideas:
- Zesty Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of orange or lemon zest to the batter.
- Berry Boost: Fold in 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries (do not thaw if frozen).
- Nut Butter Swirl: Swirl 2 tablespoons of your favorite nut butter through the batter before baking.
- Spiced Up: Increase cinnamon to 1 teaspoon and add 1/4 teaspoon each of nutmeg and ground ginger.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Whole Wheat Greek Yogurt Banana Bread tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen slices at room temperature or warm them gently in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
Why is my banana bread dry?
You might have overmixed the batter or overbaked it. Ensure you mix just until combined and check for doneness with a skewer.
Can I make this gluten-free?
You can substitute the whole wheat flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
How do I know if my bananas are ripe enough?
They should have plenty of brown spots and be soft to the touch. The browner, the sweeter and more flavorful your banana bread will be.
Can I reduce the sugar content?
Yes, you can slightly reduce the maple syrup or honey, but be aware it might alter the moisture and sweetness.
Is this suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely! It makes a fantastic grab-and-go breakfast or snack, ideal for healthy baking recipes in your meal prep.
