Banana bread recipe no butter is one of those timeless recipes that never fails to satisfy, but what if you could enjoy it without butter? Whether you’re looking to make a healthier version or simply need a dairy-free alternative, this banana bread recipe without butter is here to deliver all the deliciousness you love with a twist. Made with ripe bananas, cinnamon, and a few simple, wholesome ingredients, this recipe is not only easy but also versatile enough to fit any dietary needs. You can even swap in your favorite milk alternative for a completely vegan treat! So, are you ready to bake a loaf that’s just as soft, moist, and irresistible as the classic version? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
Making this banana bread without butter is a simple and rewarding experience, and it starts with a handful of wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re baking for a family treat or just craving a comforting snack, these ingredients are easy to find and come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
Basic Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas – The riper, the better! Overripe bananas give the bread its natural sweetness and moisture.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – For a lighter texture, you can also use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend.
- ½ cup coconut oil (or any neutral oil) – This replaces butter, adding moisture without compromising texture. Applesauce is a great alternative for a lower-fat option!
- 2 large eggs – These help bind everything together. If you’re going vegan, you can swap these out for flax eggs or chia eggs.
- ¾ cup brown sugar – It gives a rich, caramel-like flavor. You can reduce this to ½ cup for a less sweet version or use maple syrup for a more natural sweetener.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – This helps the bread rise and gives it that perfect soft texture.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – The warmth of cinnamon really brings out the banana flavor and makes the bread smell irresistible!
- ½ teaspoon salt – A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth and a touch of sweetness without needing extra sugar.
- ½ cup milk alternative (almond, oat, or soy milk) – For a dairy-free banana bread or to keep things vegan, any plant-based milk will work perfectly here.
- Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips – Add a bit of crunch or indulgence if you like, but these are totally optional.
Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to bring everything together and create that delicious, soft banana bread—without the butter! Follow these simple steps, and I’ll guide you through the process with tips along the way to make sure your loaf turns out perfect every time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s at the right temperature when you pop your batter in. You’ll want to bake your banana bread at this temperature for a nice, even rise.
- Prepare Your Baking Pan: Lightly coat a 9×5-inch loaf pan with coconut oil or line it with parchment paper. This will make removing your banana bread after baking a breeze.
- Mash the Bananas: Using a fork or potato masher, mash your ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl until they’re smooth. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and moister your bread will be. If your bananas are on the firm side, don’t worry—just mash them a little more thoroughly.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the coconut oil (or your oil of choice), brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. You should have a smooth, creamy base. If you’re using applesauce or maple syrup instead of sugar, now’s the time to add those too.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This helps distribute the dry ingredients evenly before adding them to the wet mixture.
- Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients: Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Take care not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, and we want light, fluffy banana bread!
- Add Optional Mix-Ins: If you’re adding walnuts, chocolate chips, or any other goodies, fold them in now. This adds a fun twist to the flavor and texture of the bread.
- Pour the Batter Into the Pan: Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. It should be about three-quarters full, which allows space for the bread to rise while baking.
- Bake the Banana Bread: Place your loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes.
- Cool and Serve: After baking, take the banana bread out of the oven and let it rest in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Trust me, it’s worth the wait! This will help the bread firm up and make slicing easier.
Pro Tips and Variations
Baking banana bread without butter opens up a world of possibilities to make this recipe even more delightful and personalized. Whether you’re tweaking the texture, flavor, or nutritional value, there are countless ways to make this banana bread uniquely yours. Here are some pro tips and variations that will take your loaf to the next level:
Pro Tips:
- Use Super Ripe Bananas
- The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavourful your bread will be. If you have bananas that are too ripe, don’t throw them away—this is the perfect time to use them! You’ll get a naturally sweet and moist banana bread.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter
- Mix the wet and dry ingredients together just until fully combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough loaf, so a gentle stir is all it takes for light, fluffy banana bread.
- Check for Doneness with a Toothpick
- Once the baking time is up, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s done. If it’s still wet, give it a few more minutes and test again.
- Let it Cool Before Slicing
- As tempting as it may be to dive right in, allow your banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps set the texture and makes slicing easier.
Variations to Try:
- Add Nuts or Chocolate Chips
- For an extra crunch or a sweet surprise, fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips into your batter. Just be sure to fold them in gently to avoid overmixing. This gives your banana bread a fun twist without changing the core recipe.
- Make it Vegan
- If you’re looking for a completely dairy-free and egg-free version, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg). Use plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk, and you’re good to go!
- Switch Up the Sweetener
- Feel free to get creative with your sweeteners. Instead of brown sugar, try using maple syrup, honey, or even coconut sugar. Just keep in mind that the consistency of your batter may change slightly depending on the liquid content, so adjust your flour accordingly.
- Add a Zesty Twist
- A little zest from a lemon or orange can brighten the flavors of your banana bread and create a refreshing contrast with the sweetness of the bananas.
- Try Whole Wheat Flour
- For a healthier take, swap half (or all) of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will add more fiber and a slightly nutty flavor to your loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve baked your banana bread without butter, it’s time to enjoy it! Whether you’re having a slice for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or serving it at a family gathering, banana bread is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of delicious options. Here are a few serving ideas to elevate your loaf and make it even more irresistible:
1. Enjoy It Plain: Sometimes the simplest way is the best. A freshly baked slice of banana bread, with its naturally sweet and moist texture, is perfect on its own. Enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy moment.
2. Add Nut Butter: Spread a little peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter on top for a rich, protein-packed boost. The creamy texture pairs perfectly with the moistness of the banana bread, making each bite even more satisfying.
3. Top with Fresh Fruit: For a light and refreshing twist, serve your banana bread with fresh fruit. Sliced strawberries, blueberries, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt add a pop of color and a boost of nutrients. It’s a great option for breakfast or a healthy snack.
4. Make it a Dessert: For a sweet treat, top your banana bread with a drizzle of honey, maple syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar. For extra indulgence, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream—this variation is especially perfect for special occasions or weekend indulgence.
5. Toast It Up: For a slightly crispy, caramelized edge, try toasting your banana bread before serving. A few minutes under the broiler or in a toaster oven will give it a lovely golden-brown crust. Serve it warm with a pat of dairy-free butter or a light drizzle of coconut oil for a comforting treat.
Conclusion
This banana bread without butter is not only an easy, healthier alternative to the classic recipe, but it’s also incredibly versatile and satisfying. Whether you’re looking to cut down on dairy, reduce fat, or simply try something new, this loaf delivers all the comfort and flavor you expect from banana bread—with a lighter, more wholesome twist.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavour
- By using ripe bananas, coconut oil, and a few pantry staples, you can make a delicious banana bread that tastes like it’s straight from the bakery—without the butter!
- Perfect for Any Diet: It’s perfect for those following a dairy-free or vegan diet, and with easy substitutions like maple syrup or applesauce, you can adjust the recipe to fit your dietary needs.
- Ideal for All Occasions: Whether you’re baking it for breakfast, a snack, or a dessert, this banana bread can be enjoyed anytime. Pair it with a cup of coffee in the morning or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting treat after dinner.
- Keep It Fresh and Moist: This banana bread stays moist and soft for days, so you can enjoy it over several days. Plus, it freezes beautifully! Slice it up, wrap it tightly, and pop it in the freezer for a quick snack whenever you’re craving something sweet.
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Banana Bread Recipe no Butter
Ingredients
3 ripe bananas
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup coconut oil (or any neutral oil)
2 large eggs
¾ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup milk alternative (almond, oat, or soy milk)
Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips
Instructions
Preheat Your Oven
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s at the right temperature when you pop your batter in. You’ll want to bake your banana bread at this temperature for a nice, even rise.
Prepare Your Baking Pan
- Lightly coat a 9×5-inch loaf pan with coconut oil or line it with parchment paper. This will make removing your banana bread after baking a breeze.
Mash the Bananas
- Using a fork or potato masher, mash your ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl until they’re smooth. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and moister your bread will be. If your bananas are on the firm side, don’t worry—just mash them a little more thoroughly.
Mix Wet Ingredients
- Add the coconut oil (or your oil of choice), brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. You should have a smooth, creamy base. If you’re using applesauce or maple syrup instead of sugar, now’s the time to add those too.
Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This helps distribute the dry ingredients evenly before adding them to the wet mixture.
Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Take care not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, and we want light, fluffy banana bread!
Add Optional Mix-Ins
- If you’re adding walnuts, chocolate chips, or any other goodies, fold them in now. This adds a fun twist to the flavor and texture of the bread.
Pour the Batter Into the Pan
- Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. It should be about three-quarters full, which allows space for the bread to rise while baking.
Bake the Banana Bread
- Place your loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes.
Cool and Serve
- After baking, take the banana bread out of the oven and let it rest in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Trust me, it’s worth the wait! This will help the bread firm up and make slicing easier.
Notes
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Cholesterol: 40mg
FAQs
1. Can I use another type of oil instead of coconut oil?
Absolutely! While coconut oil adds a subtle tropical flavor and moisture, you can easily swap it for any other neutral oil, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil. If you’re looking to add a bit more richness, olive oil works well too. Just keep in mind that using olive oil may slightly change the flavor profile.
2. Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. . For a lighter texture, you can also add a tablespoon of xanthan gum to help with structure and binding.
3. How can I make this banana bread sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter loaf, try increasing the amount of brown sugar or using maple syrup for a natural sweetener. You can also add a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
4. How do I know when my banana bread is done?
To ensure your banana bread is perfectly baked, check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready to come out of the oven. Keep in mind that oven temperatures can vary, so the baking time might differ slightly. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover it with foil to prevent over-browning.
5. Can I freeze this banana bread?
Yes! This banana bread freezes wonderfully. Once it has completely cooled, slice it up and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap or foil, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready for a slice, just thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds. It’s perfect for those busy days when you need a quick snack!
6. How do I store banana bread to keep it fresh?
To keep your banana bread fresh for several days, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you plan to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze individual slices as mentioned earlier.
