Lower Sugar Banana Bread Recipe

If you adore banana bread but want to enjoy every slice without the guilt of too much sugar, this Lower Sugar Banana Bread Recipe is an absolute game changer. It captures all the comforting flavors and moist texture you love, thanks to the natural sweetness of very ripe bananas and a touch of pure maple syrup. This recipe not only reduces added sugars but also uses wholesome ingredients like whole wheat flour and a hint of cinnamon to elevate every bite. Whether you’re baking for a cozy morning treat or a healthy snack, this banana bread will quickly become your new favorite way to enjoy a classic dessert with less sugar!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the secret to making this Lower Sugar Banana Bread Recipe sing with flavor and texture. Each component plays an important role, from the sweet overripe bananas providing natural sugar and moisture, to the whole wheat flour delivering a hearty, nutty base that keeps the bread satisfying and rich.

• Very overripe mashed bananas (1 ½ cups, 360g): The star ingredient that naturally sweetens and moistens the bread.
• Pure maple syrup (⅓ cup, 80ml): Adds subtle, real sweetness without refined sugars.
• Neutral oil such as avocado oil (¼ cup, 60ml): Keeps the bread tender without overpowering flavors.
• Non-dairy milk (¼ cup, 60ml): Combines with vinegar to create vegan buttermilk that helps the bread rise beautifully.
• Apple cider vinegar (1 tsp, 5ml): Reacts with baking soda to give the bread a light and airy crumb.
• Whole wheat flour (2 cups, 240g): Provides a wholesome texture and nutritional boost compared to all-purpose flour.
• Baking soda (1 tsp, 5g): The leavening agent responsible for the perfect lift.
• Fine sea salt (½ tsp, 3g): Balances flavors and enhances sweetness.
• Cinnamon (½ tsp, 1g): Adds a warm, cozy note that pairs perfectly with bananas.
• Pure vanilla extract (1 tsp, 5ml): Elevates the flavor, adding depth and aroma.
• Chocolate chips (½ cup, 90g, optional): For a delightful touch of indulgence without overwhelming sweetness.

How to Make Lower Sugar Banana Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s fully heated and ready. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray, then line it with parchment paper to ensure your banana bread releases cleanly without sticking.

Step 2: Make Vegan Buttermilk

Mix together the non-dairy milk and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes until it slightly curdles to create a vegan buttermilk. This ingredient is essential for tenderizing the bread and helping it rise nicely.

Step 3: Mash Your Bananas

Place the very overripe bananas in a large mixing bowl and mash them thoroughly with a fork until smooth and consistent. This ensures even sweetness and moisture distribution throughout the bread.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the maple syrup, oil, vanilla extract, and the vegan buttermilk mixture to the bowl with the mashed bananas. Whisk everything together gently but completely, making sure no clumps remain without overmixing.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Sift in the whole wheat flour, baking soda, sea salt, and cinnamon gradually. Use a wooden spoon to fold the dry mix into the wet ingredients carefully, stopping once you see a few streaks of flour left. Overmixing will make the bread dense, so a light touch is the key.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips (Optional)

If you’d like that little chocolate surprise, gently stir in the chocolate chips now. A few folds are enough; mixing too much will weigh down the batter and affect texture.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Pour your batter into the parchment-lined pan and spread it out evenly, smoothing the surface with a spatula for uniform baking.

Step 8: Bake Your Bread

Pop the loaf into the oven’s center rack and bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. When 25 minutes remain, loosely cover the top with foil to prevent over-browning while allowing the bread to cook fully through.

Step 9: Cool Before Slicing

Once baked, leave the bread in the pan for 10 minutes to cool slightly. Then carefully lift it out using the parchment paper and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time sets the crumb and makes slicing neat and easy.

How to Serve Lower Sugar Banana Bread Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance each slice with a light spread of nut butter or a drizzle of tahini for a creamy, rich touch. A sprinkle of chopped walnuts or a dusting of cinnamon on top not only adds texture but compliments the warm flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair your banana bread with fresh fruit or a cup of your favorite tea or coffee for a perfect breakfast or snack. A dollop of dairy-free yogurt or a side of berries can also make for a refreshing and balanced accompaniment.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn this bread into a breakfast parfait by layering crumbled banana bread with plant-based yogurt and fruits. Or for a fun dessert, warm slices slightly and serve with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream and toasted nuts. It’s versatile, so let your creativity run wild!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap the banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps it moist and fresh, perfect for quick grabs throughout your busy week.

Freezing

To enjoy your Lower Sugar Banana Bread Recipe later, freeze whole or sliced portions wrapped well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or placed in freezer-safe bags. It stays delicious for up to three months, making it a fantastic make-ahead treat.

Reheating

Warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for about 15-20 seconds to revive the bread’s soft texture and bring out those comforting banana aromas. Avoid over-heating to keep it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour if preferred. However, whole wheat flour adds nuttiness and fiber, making the bread a bit heartier and more nutritious.

Is the maple syrup replaceable with another sweetener?

Absolutely! You can use honey or agave syrup as alternatives, but keep in mind that the flavor profile and moisture level might vary slightly.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this banana bread gluten-free, swap the whole wheat flour for a gluten-free all-purpose baking flour blend. Be sure the blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binding agent for best results.

Why is there vinegar in the recipe?

The apple cider vinegar reacts with the baking soda to create bubbles that help the bread rise. It also tenderizes the crumb, giving you a fluffy, light texture.

Can I omit the chocolate chips?

Yes! The chocolate chips are optional. The bread tastes fantastic without them, perfect if you want to keep it even simpler or reduce added sugars further.

Final Thoughts

This Lower Sugar Banana Bread Recipe is a cozy, satisfying way to enjoy banana bread without worrying about excess sugar. With natural sweetness, wholesome ingredients, and a tender crumb, it’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or simply treating yourself. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how delicious and comforting healthier banana bread can be!

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