Banana Bread Recipe No Butter: Moist & Delicious Alternative
Banana bread is a timeless classic, but what if you want to make it without butter? Whether you’re out of butter, looking for a healthier option, or following a dairy-free diet, this banana bread recipe with no butter is the perfect solution. It delivers a moist, flavorful loaf with simple substitutions that don’t compromise taste. Plus, it’s easy to make with pantry staples!
Why Make Banana Bread Recipe No Butter ?
Did you know that traditional banana bread recipes can contain up to 14 grams of saturated fat per slice due to butter? By swapping butter for healthier alternatives, you can enjoy the same indulgent taste while making your banana bread lighter and heart-healthier.
This recipe uses oil or yogurt instead of butter, keeping the loaf moist and rich without unnecessary fats. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients List
To make butter-free banana bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a healthier option)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional but recommended for flavor)
Wet Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup vegetable oil (or ½ cup Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- ½ cup brown sugar (for natural sweetness and moisture)
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup (for additional sweetness)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup milk or dairy-free alternative (almond, oat, or soy)
Optional Add-ins
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ½ cup chocolate chips
- ¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries
Substitutions:
- Instead of vegetable oil, use coconut oil, olive oil, or applesauce.
- Instead of brown sugar, use coconut sugar or an extra banana for natural sweetness.
Timing
One of the best things about this banana bread recipe without butter is how quickly it comes together!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Baking Time: 50-55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
This is 20% quicker than many traditional butter-based banana bread recipes, making it perfect for a busy schedule.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking soda
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Cinnamon
Set aside.
Step 3: Mash Bananas and Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mash three ripe bananas until smooth. Stir in:
- Oil or Greek yogurt
- Brown sugar
- Honey or maple syrup
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Milk
Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bread!
Step 5: Add Mix-Ins (Optional)
If using walnuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit, fold them in now for extra texture and flavor.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
(Based on 10 servings per loaf)
- Calories: 210
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 15g
This banana bread without butter contains 30% less saturated fat than traditional recipes while maintaining its delicious texture.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want to make this banana bread even healthier? Try these swaps:
Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or oat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
Lower Sugar: Replace sugar with mashed dates or applesauce.
High-Protein: Use Greek yogurt instead of oil and add a scoop of protein powder.
Dairy-Free: Opt for almond or oat milk and a plant-based yogurt alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Make your banana bread extra special with these serving ideas:
- Drizzle with honey or peanut butter for extra richness.
- Serve with fresh banana slices for a refreshing touch.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or chai tea for a cozy treat.
- Toast and top with vanilla ice cream for a dessert-like experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common banana bread mistakes for the best results:
- Overmixing the batter → leads to dense and dry bread.
- Using unripe bananas → results in bland, less sweet bread.
- Skipping the resting time → cooling ensures the best texture.
- Baking at too high a temperature → can cause uneven cooking.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Want to keep your banana bread fresh for days? Here’s how:
- At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for 3 days.
- In the Fridge: Keeps fresh for up to 7 days (best when warmed before eating).
- In the Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
Pro Tip: Reheat in the toaster or microwave for a just-baked taste!
Conclusion
This banana bread recipe without butter is an easy, delicious, and healthier alternative to traditional banana bread. Whether you’re looking for a dairy-free option or just want a lighter, moist loaf, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Have you tried this recipe? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to check out this perfect chocolate chip muffins recipe for even more baking inspiration!
FAQs
1. What can I use instead of butter in banana bread?
You can use vegetable oil, Greek yogurt, applesauce, or coconut oil as a butter replacement.
2. How do I make banana bread extra moist?
Using overripe bananas, a liquid sweetener like honey, and Greek yogurt helps keep your bread moist.
3. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) and use almond milk instead of dairy milk.
4. How do I ripen bananas quickly?
Place bananas in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 15 minutes until they turn brown and soft.
5. Can I add chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Add ½ cup of dark chocolate chips for a richer, indulgent treat.
This butter-free banana bread recipe is your go-to solution for a moist, healthier, and delicious treat. Enjoy baking and happy eating!