How to Make Rich Banana Bread That’s Perfect Every Time

Satisfy your cravings with this Rich Banana Bread—a moist, flavorful twist on the classic that’s as wholesome as it is delicious! Packed with ripe bananas, warm spices, and a touch of sweetness, this recipe proves you can enjoy comfort food while staying on track. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this banana bread is a guilt-free way to indulge in a timeless favorite. Every slice is pure comfort!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Weight Watchers-Friendly: 3 SmartPoints® per slice (Blue Plan).
• Naturally Sweetened: Ripe bananas reduce the need for added sugar.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour with simple ingredients.
• Customizable: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices for extra flair.

Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1.5 cups)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (replaces oil/butter)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar substitute (e.g., Swerve or monk fruit)
• 1 large egg (or 2 egg whites for fewer points)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1.5 cups whole wheat flour (or gluten-free 1:1 flour)
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Optional add-ins: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (+1 SmartPoint®) or sugar-free chocolate chips (+1 SmartPoint®)

Instructions

1. Prep the Oven:
   Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
   In a bowl, combine mashed bananas, applesauce, sugar substitute, egg, and vanilla.
3. Add Dry Ingredients:
   Gently fold in flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until just combined. Avoid overmixing. Stir in optional add-ins.
4. Bake:
   Pour batter into the pan. Bake 45–50 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Cool & Slice:
   Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice into 12 pieces.

Nutrition & SmartPoints®

Per slice (without add-ins):

• Calories: 90
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: 3g
• Fat: 1g
• SmartPoints®: 3 (Blue Plan)

Points increase with optional add-ins.

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast Boost: Pair with Greek yogurt and berries (0–1 SmartPoint®).
• Afternoon Treat: Enjoy with black coffee or a zero-point chai latte.
• Dessert Upgrade: Warm a slice and top with light whipped cream (+1 SmartPoint®).

Pro Tips

• Ripe Bananas: Use speckled bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.
• Vegan Option: Substitute egg with flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
• Freeze-Friendly: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Add Protein: Stir in 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (+1 SmartPoint®).
• Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle oats or crushed almonds before baking (+1 SmartPoint®).

Why This Recipe Works for Weight Loss

• Fiber-Rich: Whole wheat flour keeps you full longer.
• Low Added Sugar: Natural banana sweetness minimizes sugar substitutes.
• Portion Control: Pre-sliced servings prevent overindulgence.

This Rich Banana Bread is a game-changer for anyone craving comfort without compromise. With its tender crumb, aromatic spices, and easy prep, it’s a staple you’ll return to again and again. Bake a loaf today and savor the joy of guilt-free indulgence!