The Easiest Healthy Banana Bread Recipe (No Sugar) (2024)

Share and Spread Healthy Recipes!

This healthy banana bread has no sugar and is wonderfully soft, fluffy, and moist! Ideal for a healthy breakfast or a satisfying snack, this is the best banana bread recipe. There are a lot of vegan banana breads out there, but this is sure to become your go-to recipe. It has the perfect texture and banana flavor.

Pin

Put that abundance of overripe bananas to good use in this easy healthy banana bread recipe. Slather a slice with a bit of almond butter or peanut butter, vegan butter, or just enjoy it plain and start your day off right. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients and tastes incredible.

Keep reading to learnhow to make banana bread without sugar.

Before I lost 125 poundsI could eat entire loaves of quick breads and did! They are definitely an addiction for me. Now that I have lost weight and eat a vegan diet, I created this great recipe for low-sugar banana bread, but I still have to refrain from eating the entire loaf. I cut it into individual slices and freeze it, so I can implement portion control. Read on to see how to freeze banana bread and how to defrost banana bread.

More recipes that use ripe bananas

Reader Review– The Easiest Healthy Banana Bread Recipe (No Sugar)

The texture was perfect! I’m definitely making it again! – Dot

Snack Smart!

Grab your FREE Plant-Based Snacks, Smoothies, & Desserts mini-cookbook now!

Ingredients in The Easiest Healthy Banana Bread Recipe (No Sugar)

This sugar free banana bread requires only 10 main ingredients, but the great thing is the add-ins are endless. You can find the full recipe card, including ingredient quantities, full step-by-step instructions, and nutritional information below.

• Bananas:They are the stars of the show! The more ripe they are the more natural sweetness your banana bread will have.

• All Purpose Flour: You could try whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but I have not tried it with this recipe.

• Coconut Oil:For best results, I recommend using refined coconut oil so you don’t have a coconut flavor to your bread. You want the bananas to shine, not the coconut oil. I think it is the best substitute for butter in banana bread. It makes moist banana bread without being wet. Alternatively, you could use vegan melted butter, but I have not tried olive oil or canola oil, so I don’t know how those will affect the texture.

• Soy Milk: You could use your favorite plant-based milk, however, soy milk makes the best vegan buttermilk and that’s key to this recipe.

• Apple Cider Vinegar: Added to the soy milk to create a vegan buttermilk. You could add lemon juice, but the vinegar gives a better flavor.

• Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor.

• Nutmeg:I like the addition of nutmeg, but you could use cinnamon or allspice for a little added warm flavor.

• Baking Soda:It serves as a leavening agent in banana bread, helping it rise by producing carbon dioxide gas when it reacts with acidic ingredients like vegan buttermilk. This reaction creates bubbles in the batter, resulting in a lighter and fluffier texture. Additionally, baking soda neutralizes any acidic components in the batter, which can help balance the flavor and contribute to the overall tenderness of the banana bread.

• Baking Powder:It helps to ensure even rising and a consistent texture throughout the banana bread loaf.

• Salt:just a pinch to enhance the sweetness of the bananas.

Optional add-ins:There are numerous optional ingredients you can add to banana bread to enhance its flavor, texture, and nutritional profile. Here are some popular choices:

• Sweetener:I think the bananas add just the right amount of sweetness, however, if you want extra sweetness you could add monkfruit-sweetened brown sugar or coconut sugar.

• Nuts:Chopped walnuts, pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts can add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to your banana bread.

• Dried Fruit:Raisins, cranberries, chopped dates, or chopped apricots can add a chewy texture and natural sweetness to your banana bread.

• Seeds: Pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, chia seeds, or flaxseeds can add a nutritional boost and subtle crunch to your banana bread.

• Coconut:Shredded coconut or coconut flakes can add a tropical flavor and texture to your banana bread.

• Lemon zest:Adding lemon zest can add a bright citrusy flavor to your banana bread, enhancing its overall freshness.

• Peanut Butter or Almond Butter:Swirling nut butter into the batter before baking can add a rich and indulgent layer of flavor to your banana bread.

Instructions for making this dairy free banana bread recipe

This vegan banana bread is easy to make by following these step-by-step directions.

Step 1 – Preheat oven& gather ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350ºF, grease your 9″ loaf pan, or line with parchment paper.

Step 2 – Make buttermilk

In a small separate bowl, mix the non-dairy milk and apple cider vinegar and set aside.

Step 3 – Mix ingredients

In a mediumbowl, sift together white flour, baking powder, baking soda, nutmeg, and salt. If you want added sugar, mix it in, too.

In a large mixing bowl, mash bananas. Add the coconut oil, vanilla extract, and buttermilk. Next, gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, and do not overmix. Add optional ingredients to the banana mixture if you want.

Step 4 – Bake

Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 35-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 5 – Serve and Enjoy

Place the loaf pan on a cooling rack and allow it to cool for 30 minutes before removing it from the pan. Allow the loaf to cool on a wire rack for another 10 minutes or so before slicing and serving.

Recipe

If you like this recipe remember to leave a 5 star rating and let me know how it went in the below comments, I love hearing from you! You can also FOLLOW ME on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, andPINTERESTto see all my delicious recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some ideas for serving banana bread:

1. Plain slices:Enjoy banana bread as-is, sliced, and served plain. It’s perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert.
2. With a spread:Spread a layer of vegan butter, vegan cream cheese, peanut butter, almond butter, or sunflower seed butter on slices of banana bread for added richness and flavor.
3. Toasted:Toast slices of banana bread until golden brown and slightly crispy. Enjoy it warm with a pat of vegan butter or your favorite spread.
4. Warm with vegan ice cream:Serve warm slices of banana bread with a scoop of vanilla non-dairy ice cream for a delightful dessert. The warm-cold contrast is heavenly.
5. Yogurt parfait:Cube banana bread and layer it with vegan yogurt and fresh fruit to create a delicious and satisfying parfait.
6. French toast:Use slices of banana bread to makeFrench toastfor a unique twist on this classic breakfast dish.
7. Trifle:Cube banana bread and layer it with non-dairy whipped cream or vegan pudding to create a decadent banana bread trifle.
8. Grilled sandwich:Make a grilled sandwich using slices of banana bread, peanut butter, and sliced bananas for a sweet and satisfying treat.
9. Bread pudding:Use stale banana bread to make a delicious bread pudding. Simply cube the bread, soak it in a mixture of flax egg, non-dairy milk, sugar, and spices, and bake until set.
10. Smoothie add-in:Blend a slice of banana bread into a smoothie bowl for added flavor and texture. It pairs particularly well in banana or chocolate smoothie bowls.

These are just a few ideas to get you started, but feel free to get creative and come up with your own unique ways to enjoy banana bread!

How to store banana bread

To keep your banana bread fresh and moist for as long as possible, follow these storage tips:

1. Cool Completely:Allow the banana bread to cool completely on a wire rack before storing it. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the bread soggy.
2. Wrap Tightly:Once cooled, wrap the banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper and aluminum foil. Make sure it’s well-sealed to prevent air from getting in and drying out the bread.
3. Store at Room Temperature:If you plan to consume the banana bread within a few days, you can store it at room temperature. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
4. Refrigerate:If you want to extend the shelf life of the banana bread beyond a few days, you can store it in the refrigerator. Again, make sure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent it from drying out.
5. Freeze for Long-Term Storage:Banana bread freezes exceptionally well. Wrap individual slices or the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag or an airtight container. Frozen banana bread can last for several months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw the bread in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
6. Avoid Storing in the Fridge if Not Necessary:While refrigeration can extend the shelf life of banana bread, it can also cause it to dry out faster. If you plan to enjoy the bread within a few days, storing it at room temperature is best.

By following these storage tips, you can keep your banana bread fresh and delicious for as long as possible.

For more info regarding food safety, clickhere.

Snack Smart!

Grab your FREE Plant-Based Snacks, Smoothies, & Desserts mini-cookbook now!

FAQ’s

How to tell if banana bread is done

You can use a few methods to determine if your banana bread is done baking:

1. Toothpick test:Insert a toothpick into the center of the banana bread. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs clinging to it, the bread is done. If you see raw batter on the toothpick, it needs more time in the oven.
2. Visual cues:Look at the color of the banana bread. It should be golden brown on the top and edges. The edges might also start to pull away slightly from the sides of the pan.
3. Press test:Gently press the top of the banana bread with your fingertip. It should spring back slightly and feel firm to the touch. If it feels too soft or sinks when pressed, it likely needs more time to bake.
4. Internal temperature:Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the banana bread. It should register between 200°F to 205°F (93°C to 96°C) when fully baked.

Remember that baking times can vary depending on factors such as oven temperature accuracy, the size and type of baking pan used, and the moisture content of the bananas.

It’s always a good idea to rely on multiple cues to ensure your banana bread is baked to perfection. If in doubt, it’s better to slightly underbake than overbake, as overbaking can result in a dry and crumbly texture.

How long does homemade banana bread last?

Homemade banana bread typically lasts for about 2 to 4 days when stored properly. Keep in mind that these are general guidelines, and the actual shelf life of your homemade banana bread may vary depending on the ingredients used, storage conditions, and how well it’s wrapped. Always use your best judgment and check for any signs of spoilage, such as mold, off odors, or unusual texture, before consuming leftover banana bread.

How to freeze banana bread

The best way to freeze banana bread:

1. Cool Completely:Allow the banana bread to cool completely on a wire rack after baking. This prevents condensation from forming inside the wrapping, which can make the bread soggy.
2. Wrap Well:Once cooled, tightly wrap the banana bread in plastic wrap. Make sure it’s completely covered to prevent freezer burn and to keep moisture locked in. You can wrap the entire loaf or individual slices, depending on your preference.
3. Double Protection:After wrapping in plastic wrap, you can further protect the banana bread by placing it in a freezer-safe resealable bag or wrapping it in aluminum foil. This extra layer helps maintain freshness and prevents any potential odors from the freezer.
4. Label and Date:To easily identify the banana bread and keep track of its freezing date, label the wrapping or bag with the contents and the date it was frozen.
5. Freeze:Place the wrapped banana bread in the freezer. Lay it flat to freeze initially, then you can stack it vertically or horizontally once it’s fully frozen to save space.

By following these steps, your banana bread should stay fresh and delicious for several months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the wrapped banana bread in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Once thawed, you can unwrap and slice the banana bread as desired. If you prefer it warm, you can also reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven.

How long does banana bread last in the freezer?

If you store it properly as mentioned above it should last several months, however always use your best judgment and check for any signs of spoilage, such as mold, off odors, or unusual texture, before consuming leftover banana bread.

How do you defrost banana bread?

There are a few methods you can use to defrost banana bread, depending on how quickly you need it and your preferences:

1. Refrigerator:The safest way to defrost banana bread is by transferring it from the freezer to the refrigerator. Place the wrapped banana bread on a plate or in a container to catch any condensation, then let it thaw overnight. This gradual thawing process helps maintain the bread’s texture and prevents it from becoming soggy.
2. Room Temperature:If you’re in a hurry, you can defrost banana bread at room temperature. Remove the wrapped bread from the freezer and leave it on the countertop for a few hours. Make sure to keep it wrapped to prevent it from drying out. This method is quicker than refrigeration but may result in slightly softer edges.
3. Microwave:If you need to defrost banana bread quickly, you can use the microwave. First, remove any plastic wrap or aluminum foil from the bread. Then, place a slice of banana bread on a microwave-safe plate and microwave it on a low or defrost setting in 30-second increments, checking its progress between each interval. Be careful not to overheat the bread, as it can become rubbery or dry.

Can you put banana bread in the fridge?

Yes, you can refrigerate banana bread. Follow the directions above for storing banana bread and place the wrapped bread in the refrigerator. You can store it on a shelf or in the crisper drawer, away from any strong-smelling foods. Be sure tousewithin a week. Beyond that, it may start to dry out or lose its freshness.

How many carbs in banana bread?

The exact number of carbohydrates in banana bread can vary based on the specific recipe and ingredients used. However, I can provide a general estimate.

A typical slice of banana bread (about 64 grams or 2 ounces) contains approximately 30-40 grams of carbohydrates. This estimate includes carbohydrates from sources such as flour, sugar, bananas, and any other ingredients added to the bread.

Keep in mind that the carbohydrate content can vary depending on factors such as the size of the slice, the ratio of ingredients in the recipe, and any additional mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips.

This banana bread has19 grams of carbohydrates.

Best substitute for sugar in banana bread

I believe this recipe uses the best substitute for sugar in banana bread – bananas. You could add an extra banana or use large bananas if you feel your bread isn’t sweet enough. Other substitutes are as mentioned –

• monkfruit sweetened brown sugar
• pure maple syrup
• molasses
• agave nectar
• unsweetened applesauce – can be used to replace some or all of the sugar in banana bread recipes. It adds natural sweetness and moisture to the bread while reducing the overall sugar content
• date paste – made by blending dates with water, can be used as a natural sweetener in banana bread. It adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness and moisture to the bread.
• stevia – is a zero-calorie sweetener derived from the leaves of the stevia plant. It’s much sweeter than sugar, so only a small amount is needed. Be cautious with the amount used, as too much stevia can cause a bitter aftertaste.

Keep in mind that they may alter the texture, flavor, and bake time of the banana bread. It may require some experimentation to find the perfect balance for your taste preferences. I tested this bread with and without monkfruit-sweetened brown sugar, however, I have not tested it with the other ingredients.

More easy vegan recipes you’ll love

• Mexican Fruit Seasoning Recipe (Copycat Tajin)
• How to Make a Fruit Platter – Easy Tips You Need to Know
• Easy Sticky Sesame Oyster Mushroom Recipe
• Leek Soup Diet for Weight Loss – Easy Recipe
• Easy 7 Day Alkaline Meal Plan for Beginners

Pin this for later

Pin

​Disclaimer: Please note that I am not a medical professional. The information provided on this blog is based on my personal experiences and research as a vegan recipe enthusiast. While I strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or a registered dietitian before making any significant changes to your diet, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns. The recipes and tips shared on this blog are meant for general informational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always prioritize your health and well-being by seeking personalized guidance from a qualified healthcare provider.