Reduced Calorie Banana Bread

Indulge in the guilt-free goodness of Reduced Calorie Banana Bread, a healthier twist on a classic comfort treat that's bursting with natural sweetness and hearty flavor. This moist and tender loaf is made with ripe bananas, protein-packed plain Greek yogurt, and unsweetened applesauce to cut back on calories without sacrificing taste. Whole wheat flour adds a wholesome touch, while a hint of cinnamon and vanilla brings a warm, aromatic depth to every bite. Sweetened naturally with maple syrup (or honey) and featuring optional dark chocolate chips or nuts for added texture, this banana bread is perfect as a nutritious breakfast, snack, or dessert. Ready in just over an hour and easy to make with pantry staples, it’s a go-to recipe for those seeking a low-calorie baking option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:50 mins

Total Time:65 mins

Servings: 10

Ingredients

• 3 large ripe bananas
• 0.25 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 0.5 cup plain Greek yogurt (non-fat or low-fat)
• 1 large egg (or egg substitute)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 0.25 cup maple syrup (or honey)
• 1.5 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.25 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 cup dark chocolate chips (or chopped nuts, optional)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2

Peel and mash the bananas in a large mixing bowl until smooth.

Step 3

Add the unsweetened applesauce, plain Greek yogurt, egg, vanilla extract, and maple syrup to the mashed bananas. Mix until well combined.

Step 4

In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt.

Step 5

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6

If using, fold in the dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts gently into the batter.

Step 7

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.

Step 8

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.

Step 9

Remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	951.7 grams (951.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1603

Total Fat 27.80g	36%
Saturated Fat 12.80g	64%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 189mg	63%
Sodium 1987mg	86%
Total Carbohydrate 310.70g	113%
Dietary Fiber 38.70g	138%
Total Sugars 120.70g
Protein 52.30g	105%

Vitamin D 40IU	200%
Calcium 335mg	26%
Iron 14mg	76%
Potassium 2831mg	60%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 14.7%

Protein: 12.3%

Carbs: 73.0%