Healthy Banana Bread Recipe Two Peas & Their Pod from www.twopeasandtheirpod.com
Introduction
Banana bread is a classic comfort food, but traditional recipes can be high in sugar and unhealthy fats. This healthy banana bread recipe is a nutritious alternative that still tastes great. Made with whole wheat flour, Greek yogurt, and natural sweeteners, it's a guilt-free treat that you can enjoy any time of day.
Ingredients
To make this healthy banana bread, you'll need the following ingredients:
3 ripe bananas
1/3 cup melted coconut oil
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
2 eggs
1/4 cup milk or almond milk
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp salt
1 3/4 cups whole wheat flour
Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your healthy banana bread:
Preheat your oven to 325°F.
Mash the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl.
Add the melted coconut oil and honey (or maple syrup) and mix well.
Beat in the eggs, milk, baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt.
Gradually add in the whole wheat flour, stirring until just combined.
If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts or chocolate chips.
Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the banana bread in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition
This healthy banana bread recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients that offer a range of health benefits. Here's a breakdown of the nutrition information for one slice (assuming 10 slices per loaf):
Calories: 235
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 19g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 36mg
Sodium: 296mg
Potassium: 232mg
Benefits of Whole Wheat Flour
Unlike refined flour, which has been stripped of its nutrients, whole wheat flour is made by grinding the entire wheat kernel. This means that it contains all the fiber, vitamins, and minerals that are naturally present in the wheat. Whole wheat flour is a good source of B vitamins, iron, and magnesium, and it has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
Benefits of Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes, including this healthy banana bread. It's a good source of protein, calcium, and probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that promote digestive health. Greek yogurt also provides a creamy texture and tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the bananas in this recipe.
Benefits of Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a type of saturated fat that has been shown to increase levels of HDL ("good") cholesterol in the body. It's also rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are a type of fat that is easily converted to energy by the body. Coconut oil has a mild, nutty flavor that adds richness to baked goods like this healthy banana bread.
Benefits of Honey
Honey is a natural sweetener that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and boost the immune system. Honey is also a source of prebiotics, which are a type of fiber that feed the beneficial bacteria in the gut. When using honey in baking, choose raw, unfiltered honey for the most health benefits.
Conclusion
This healthy banana bread recipe is a delicious way to enjoy a classic treat without the guilt. With wholesome ingredients like whole wheat flour, Greek yogurt, and natural sweeteners, it's a nutritious option that you can feel good about serving to your family and friends. Try it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert – it's sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
