I’m so excited to share this recipe for a delightful low-calorie banana bread! This has quickly become one of my go-to treats when I need a sweet fix while keeping things light. There’s just something wonderfully comforting about baking banana bread—it fills the house with the most amazing aroma, and it’s the perfect way to use up those ripe bananas sitting on your kitchen counter.
What I love most about this recipe is its soft texture and light golden color. It reminds me of my childhood, when my mom would whip up banana bread on lazy Sunday afternoons. The best part? Each slice is only about 49 calories, making it the perfect guilt-free indulgence. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, I can guarantee you will be back for seconds!
What’s in Low-Calorie Banana Bread?
Let’s break down the ingredients that make this banana bread so special:
Ripe Bananas: The star of the show! Ripe bananas not only provide natural sweetness but also add moisture to the bread. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots for the best flavor!
Low-Calorie Sweetener: There are several options out there like Stevia, monk fruit sweetener, or erythritol. They’re great substitutes for granulated sugar, and they keep the calorie count nice and low without sacrificing sweetness.
Flour: I generally go for whole wheat flour as it gives the bread a nutty flavor and a bit of added fiber, but you can use all-purpose flour if you prefer a lighter texture.
Baking Powder: This is our leavening agent, helping the bread to rise and become light and fluffy.
Eggs: Adding moisture and binding the ingredients together, eggs are a must! They also contribute to that lovely soft texture we all love.
Vanilla Extract: Just a splash for that warm, aromatic note that elevates the flavor profile.
Is Low-Calorie Banana Bread Good for You?
Absolutely! This banana bread not only satisfies your sweet tooth but comes loaded with nutritious benefits too.
Ripe Bananas: They’re rich in potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber—great for heart health and digestion.
Low-Calorie Sweeteners: These are a fantastic way to enjoy sweetness without the calories, making it easier to stick to health goals without feeling deprived. However, if you’re sensitive to them, feel free to use a small amount of regular sugar for a slightly different taste.
Whole Wheat Flour: If you opt for this, you’ll get more fiber and nutrients as compared to white flour, which can make you feel fuller longer.
With all these wholesome ingredients, you can feel good about enjoying a slice (or two!) of this delightful banana bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup low-calorie sweetener (like Stevia or erythritol)
– 1 cup whole wheat flour (or all-purpose)
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– A pinch of salt (optional)
This recipe makes about 12 slices, with each slice weighing in at about 49 calories.
How to Make Low-Calorie Banana Bread?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. You can use a fork or a potato masher—whatever works for you!
3. Add in the low-calorie sweetener, and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract, blending everything together nicely.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, gently folding them in with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the bread light and airy!
7. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top has turned that lovely golden-brown color.
9. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Banana Bread Bliss: Extra Tips and Serving Ideas
– If you want to add a little extra flair, toss in some chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips before baking. Just remember to adjust the calorie count accordingly!
– This banana bread freezes wonderfully. Just slice it up, wrap it in plastic, and pop it in the freezer. You can then take out a slice whenever the craving strikes!
– Enjoy it warm with a smear of almond butter or a drizzle of honey for added deliciousness.
So there you have it! A wonderfully moist and flavorful low-calorie banana bread that’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try, and I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Happy baking!
