Lightened-Up Weight Watchers Banana Bread Recipe

Banana bread is a beloved classic that offers comfort and warmth in every slice. This Weight Watchers-friendly version allows you to enjoy the delicious taste of homemade banana bread without the guilt. Using simple substitutions, this recipe is designed to keep the points low while maximizing flavor and moisture.

Ingredients

  • 3 ripe bananas (mashed, about 1 ½ cups)
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 large egg (or 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce for a vegan option)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust according to sweetness preference)
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional; use dark chocolate for lower sugar)

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowls (large and medium)
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • 9×5 inch loaf pan
  • Parchment paper (optional, for easy removal)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooling rack

Nutritional Information (per slice, makes about 10 slices)

  • Calories: 130
  • Total Fat: 3.5g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 23g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Net Carbs: 21g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Weight Watchers SmartPoints: 3 (per slice, depending on specific ingredients used)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Oven
    Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the banana bread will bake evenly. Grease your loaf pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
  2. Mash the Bananas
    In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork or potato masher. Aim for a smooth consistency with some small chunks for added texture. Ripe bananas are key for sweetness and moisture.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients
    To the mashed bananas, add the unsweetened applesauce, egg (or applesauce if vegan), and vanilla extract. Mix these ingredients together until well combined. The applesauce not only adds moisture but also reduces the need for added oil.
  4. Mix Dry Ingredients
    In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Mixing the dry ingredients separately helps to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
    Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently with a rubber spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense banana bread. A few lumps are perfectly fine.
  6. Add Sweetener
    Stir in the honey or maple syrup to the batter, adjusting the amount based on your sweetness preference. Taste the batter if needed, keeping in mind that the finished product will be slightly less sweet after baking.
  7. Incorporate Optional Ingredients
    If you’re using chopped nuts or chocolate chips, fold them into the batter gently at this stage. This adds an extra layer of flavor and texture to the bread, making it even more delightful.
  8. Pour Batter into Loaf Pan
    Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top. This will help it bake uniformly.
  9. Bake the Banana Bread
    Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
  10. Cool the Bread
    Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely. This helps maintain the moisture and prevents sogginess.
  11. Slice and Serve
    Once completely cooled, slice the banana bread into 10 even slices. Serve plain or with a light spread of butter or nut butter for added flavor. This banana bread can also be toasted for a delicious breakfast treat.
  12. Storage Options
    Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze individual slices for a quick grab-and-go option.

Tips for Success

  • Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for optimal taste.
  • Measure Ingredients Accurately: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success. Use a kitchen scale if possible for precise amounts, especially for flour.
  • Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize your banana bread with other add-ins like dried fruit, seeds, or spices. Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of vanilla extract for added warmth.

Health Benefits

This Weight Watchers Banana Bread is not only low in points but also offers several nutritional benefits:

  • Fiber-Rich: Whole wheat flour and bananas provide dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.
  • Lower in Sugar: By using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup and bananas, this recipe cuts down on refined sugars.
  • Healthy Fats: If you choose to add nuts, you benefit from healthy fats, protein, and additional fiber.

Conclusion

This Lightened-Up Weight Watchers Banana Bread is a versatile recipe that fits perfectly into a healthy lifestyle. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, this banana bread delivers flavor without the guilt.

The combination of ripe bananas, whole wheat flour, and natural sweeteners creates a moist, delicious loaf that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Embrace the joys of baking while sticking to your Weight Watchers goals, and savor each slice of this delightful banana bread!