Don’t throw out those overly ripe bananas! While you might think they’re a lost cause, they are the perfect base to create a classic sweet treat that everyone loves: banana bread! Sure, you could make a smoothie or some creamy nice cream. We love those, too. However, it’s baking season and winter is the perfect time to crank up the oven and enjoy some warm comfort food. What better time to whip up some healthy banana bread?
Homemade banana bread is the ultimate baked good. It can double as a dessert or breakfast and pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or hot tea. When made the right way, it can also serve up some major health benefits. According to Healthline, bananas are rich in fiber and antioxidants, while also being beneficial for digestion, weight loss and heart health. They contain several key nutrients, including potassium, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and manganese. You can also make healthy banana bread by using whole wheat flour and using maple syrup, honey and cinnamon instead of regular sugar.
There are many ways to make delicious and healthy banana bread. Check out three delicious and creative recipes below! From a fall-inspired Pumpkin Banana Bread to a crunchy almond variety, you’re sure to find a new favorite treat!
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb and 1 Extra
Pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice add a unique twist to classic banana bread. This delicious dessert is perfect for autumn. We add extra natural sweetness with unsweetened applesauce, maple syrup and, of course, two ripe bananas. A touch of cinnamon and a little vanilla extra add even more freshly baked flavor. We use a delightful combination of whole wheat pastry flour, eggs and nonfat plain Greek yogurt as the base of this bread. Try it out here! >
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb and 2 Extras
A beautiful sliced almond topping adds crunchy texture to this healthy recipe. Not a fan of almonds? You can easily swap in some chopped walnuts, pecans or cashews instead. We add even more delicious almond flavor with some almond extract and unsweetened almond milk, plus a touch of extra sweetness with honey and unsweetened applesauce. Whole wheat pastry flour, eggs and three ripe bananas hold it all together. Get the recipe here! >
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb and 1 Extra
We make classic banana bread gluten free by using a gluten free all-purpose flour. The other of the ingredients are pretty standard, including three ripe bananas, eggs, light butter, vanilla extract and cinnamon. We also add some extra sweetness with unsweetened applesauce. Get baking! >
