Welcome, baking enthusiasts! Today, we're going to explore a deliciously healthy twist on a classic favorite: Banana Bread. Using stevia, this recipe promises a guilt-free indulgence that's sweet, moist, and packed with the goodness of bananas. Whether you're new to baking or an experienced chef, this banana bread with stevia will satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising on health.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make our healthy Banana Bread:
- 2-3 ripe bananas (approximately 1 cup when mashed)
- 1⁄3 cup melted coconut oil or butter
- 1⁄4 cup pure maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon stevia extract (powder or liquid, adjust for desired sweetness)
- 2 large eggs
- 1⁄2 cup Greek yogurt or applesauce (for moisture and fluffiness)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 and 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour
- Optional: Nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for added flavor and texture
Preparation
Preheat and Prep
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, prepare your 9x5 inch loaf pan by greasing it with a bit of coconut oil or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Add in the melted coconut oil (or butter), maple syrup (or honey), stevia extract, eggs, Greek yogurt (or applesauce), and vanilla extract. Stir these ingredients together until well combined.
Incorporating Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this can make the bread dense.
🔎 Note: Overmixing can activate the gluten in the flour, leading to a tougher texture. Aim for a slightly lumpy batter.
Adding Extras
If you’re using nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits, now is the time to fold them into your batter gently. This adds a delightful texture and flavor contrast to the bread.
Baking
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula or spoon. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on your bread towards the end as oven temperatures can vary.
🌡 Note: If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while the middle cooks.
Cooling and Serving
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps to set the texture of the bread properly.
Storing Tips
Store your banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life. If you want to keep it longer, slice it up and freeze each piece for individual enjoyment.
Health Benefits
This banana bread isn’t just delightful to eat; it’s also packed with benefits:
- Bananas: A great source of potassium, fiber, and antioxidants. They enhance the bread’s sweetness naturally.
- Stevia: Zero calories and zero carbs, perfect for those monitoring their sugar intake.
- Greek Yogurt or Applesauce: Provides protein or moisture and can improve gut health (in the case of yogurt).
- Coconut Oil: Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) which can provide quick energy and potentially aid in weight management.
As we conclude, this Stevia Banana Bread recipe proves that you can enjoy sweetness without the guilt. Its simplicity and health benefits make it an ideal treat for anyone looking to balance flavor with well-being. Whether served as a snack, breakfast, or dessert, this bread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen for its rich taste and nutritional value.
Can I substitute stevia in this recipe?
+
Yes, if you prefer not to use stevia, you can replace it with an equal volume of granulated sugar or another sweetener of your choice. Just adjust the quantity based on the sweetness desired.
How can I make the bread vegan?
+
Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg) or a commercial egg replacer. Also, use maple syrup or agave instead of honey.
What if my bread comes out too moist?
+
If your bread is too moist, it might not have baked long enough. Bake it for an additional 5-10 minutes, or adjust your oven’s temperature next time if it runs cooler than standard settings.
