Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the sweet, comforting aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through your kitchen, and this Greek Yogurt Banana Bread is no exception. With its rich, moist texture and delightful blend of flavors, it’s the perfect treat to enjoy at breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. The addition of Greek yogurt adds a creamy tang and keeps the bread incredibly tender, while ripe bananas infuse every slice with natural sweetness. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure easy release.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and granulated sugar, stirring until well blended and creamy.
- Add the Greek yogurt, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the banana mixture, mixing together until smooth and homogenous.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, baking powder, salt, and all-purpose flour, ensuring that everything is evenly mixed.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to keep the batter light and fluffy.
- If you’re including walnuts, fold them into the batter for a delightful crunch.
- Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and use a spatula to smooth the top for an even bake.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling it’s done.
- Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, use very ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots, as they’ll be sweeter and more flavorful. If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. This bread can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making it a fabulous make-ahead treat!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe capitalizes on the technique of combining wet and dry ingredients separately before mixing them together. This helps to prevent overmixing, which can lead to a dense texture. Additionally, feel free to customize this banana bread with different add-ins like dried fruit or chocolate chips for a fun twist!
FAQ
Can I freeze banana bread?
Absolutely! Once cooled, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator or at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy it.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, you can substitute it with sour cream or even regular yogurt, although the texture may vary slightly.
Conclusion
This Greek Yogurt Banana Bread is not only a delightful way to use up ripe bananas, but it also offers a lightened-up version of a classic favorite. With its moist, tender crumb and the option to add nuts or spices, it’s sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. So grab those bananas and get baking—you won’t regret it!