Banana bread. The smell alone conjures up images of cozy kitchens, warm mugs, and comforting sweetness. But for years, it felt like a treat I couldn’t indulge in too often. Packed with butter, sugar, and white flour, traditional banana bread recipes always left me feeling slightly guilty after the last crumb.

That’s why I embarked on a mission: to create a banana bread recipe that was just as delicious, comforting, and easy to make, but without the unnecessary guilt. After a lot of experimenting (and a lot of taste-testing!), I’ve finally landed on a healthy banana bread recipe that I absolutely love, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.

The key to making this banana bread healthier lies in a few simple swaps. Instead of butter, I use low-fat yoghurt which adds moisture and helps keep the bread tender. I’ve also significantly reduced the refined sugar and opted for natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. And, instead of relying solely on white flour, I incorporate whole wheat flour to boost the fiber content.

Ingredients:

• 140g wholemeal flour
• 100g self-raising flour
• 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 300g mashed banana
• 4 tbsp maple syrup or honey
• 3 large eggs beaten with a fork
• 150ml pot low-fat natural yogurt
• 25g chopped pecan or walnuts (optional)

Method in 3 easy steps:

Let’s heat the oven to 160°C/140°C fan/gas 3. Then grease and line a 2lb loaf tin with baking parchment and assemble your ingredients together.

Mix the flours, bicarb, baking powder and a pinch of salt in a large bowl. Now mix in the bananas, syrup, eggs and yogurt. Quickly stir into the dry ingredients, then gently scrape into the tin and scatter with nuts, if using.

Bake for 1 hr 10 mins-1 hr 15 mins or until a skewer comes out clean.

Conclusion

This healthy banana bread is surprisingly moist, flavorful, and satisfying. I love how it fills my kitchen with the comforting aroma of baking, and I feel good knowing that I’m enjoying a treat that’s nourishing as well as delicious. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a healthier dessert.

So, ditch the guilt and embrace this healthy twist on a classic favorite. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!