Introduction
There’s something magical about the warm aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through your kitchen. This delightful Greek Yogurt Banana Bread takes the classic recipe to a whole new level by infusing it with the creamy richness of Greek yogurt. The result? A moist, tender loaf that’s bursting with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and just a hint of nuttiness from optional walnuts or pecans. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, this banana bread will quickly become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 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 or pecans (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 generously grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until all the ingredients are beautifully blended.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, baking powder, salt, and flour until evenly combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as we want to keep that lovely tender texture!
- If using, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans to add a delightful crunch.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling that your banana bread is done.
- Once baked, allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. The wait will be worth it!
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, use very ripe bananas — the kind with lots of brown spots! They will add extra sweetness and moisture. If you want to add a little zing, consider throwing in some cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for added warmth and spice.
Cooking Techniques
This banana bread is a great recipe for practicing your baking skills. Make sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients in separate bowls to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a denser bread. Instead, aim for a gently mixed batter with a few lumps remaining for a lighter texture.
FAQ
Can I substitute the Greek yogurt? Yes, you can use regular plain yogurt if you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, but Greek yogurt will provide a richer texture.
How should I store leftover banana bread? Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This Greek Yogurt Banana Bread is more than just delicious; it’s also a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas while enjoying a healthy twist on a classic treat. Share it with your loved ones, pack it for lunch, or savor a slice with your afternoon tea. Happy baking!