Banana Bread Recipe (No Butter!)
Are you ready to bake up a loaf of delicious, moist banana bread without using any butter? This recipe is perfect for those looking for a healthier alternative or simply don't have butter on hand. It's surprisingly easy and delivers all the banana bread goodness you crave!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed: The riper, the better! Overripe bananas will give you the sweetest and most flavorful bread.
- 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce: This replaces the fat from butter, adding moisture and keeping the bread moist.
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil: Adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients together.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adjust to your preference for sweetness. You can substitute with brown sugar for a richer flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the banana.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: You can experiment with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but it might result in a slightly denser loaf.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: The leavening agent that makes your bread rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- Optional Add-ins: Chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans), chocolate chips, raisins, or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can be added to customize your banana bread.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Let's get baking! Follow these simple steps for a perfectly moist and delicious banana bread.
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal. Mash your bananas well. Measure out all your dry and wet ingredients.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, applesauce, oil, egg, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can result in a tough bread.
Step 4: Add Optional Mix-ins (if using)
Gently fold in your chosen add-ins, such as nuts or chocolate chips.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy!
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Banana Bread:
- Use very ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough bread.
- Check for doneness: Use a wooden skewer or toothpick to check if the bread is baked through. If it comes out clean, it's ready.
- Let it cool completely: This allows the bread to set properly and prevents it from crumbling when you slice it.
This no-butter banana bread recipe is a fantastic alternative to traditional recipes. It's healthy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy baking!
