Name: Sugar-free Banana Bread: Sweetness Without the Sugar Guilt
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 10
Ingredients: 2 cup mashed ripe bananas; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted; 2 1/2 tablespoon unsweetened applesauce; 2 eggs, beaten; 2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup monk fruit sweetener (optional); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon baking soda

Banana bread is a sweet and moist loaf made primarily with ripe or overripe bananas, known for their natural sugars and creamy texture.

While traditional recipes often call for refined sugars like white or brown sugar - sometimes adding up to 24 grams of sugar per slice - this healthier version takes a different approach. By eliminating refined sugar and relying on ripe bananas and natural sugar alternatives, this banana bread delivers the same soft, sweet flavor. This recipe has lower calories and reduced glycemic load, making it diabetic-friendly, and ideal for those monitoring their blood sugar levels.

This sugar-free banana bread achieves its sweetness naturally with ripe bananas, but sugar alternatives like monk fruit sweetener or unsweetened applesauce can be included for an extra layer. These alternatives not only complement the bananas but also help maintain the bread’s moisture and rich flavor without relying on refined sugar.

Ripe bananas
Ripe bananas, with their natural sugars and creamy texture, eliminate the need for added sugar while keeping the banana bread moist and flavorful. As the core ingredient, they provide both sweetness and nutrition.
Monk Fruit Sweetener
Monk fruit sweetener is ideal for sugar-free banana bread because it delivers sweetness without calories or glycemic spikes, making it perfect for a loaf that supports blood sugar management.
Unsweetened Apple Sauce
Unsweetened applesauce is a perfect sugar alternative for banana bread, adding natural sweetness and moisture without refined sugar. Its fiber content slows sugar absorption, reducing blood sugar spikes. Paired with ripe bananas, it creates a soft, balanced loaf that’s both healthy and delicious.

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, vanilla extract, melted butter, unsweetened applesauce, and beaten eggs. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, monk fruit sweetener (if using), salt, and baking soda.

Step 4: Mix Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure a tender loaf.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Sugar-free Banana Bread: Sweetness Without the Sugar Guilt