This Weight Watchers Banana Bread is a healthier version of the classic comfort food, perfect for a satisfying snack or breakfast! By using healthier ingredients like whole wheat flour and reducing the sugar, we’ve cut down on the calories and points without sacrificing that moist, banana-packed flavor. This recipe is simple to make and still delivers that classic banana bread taste, making it a great addition to your meal plan while staying on track with your Weight Watchers goals.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (to replace butter or oil)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt (adds moisture)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional, for extra texture)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan (8×4 inch) or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Stir in the applesauce, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, egg, and Greek yogurt. Mix well until fully combined.
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. If you’re using walnuts or chocolate chips, fold them in at this point.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve: Slice into 12 pieces. Enjoy on its own or with a light spread of nut butter for extra flavor!
Weight Watchers SmartPoints (per serving, assuming 12 slices):
- Blue/Green/Purple: ~3 SmartPoints per slice (without nuts or chocolate chips)
- Calories: ~120-140 per slice
- Carbs: ~25g
- Protein: ~3g
- Fat: ~1.5g
- Fiber: ~3g
This Weight Watchers Banana Bread is a lighter, healthier take on the traditional recipe, perfect for a quick breakfast or a guilt-free treat.