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Freshly baked banana bread without butter, sliced on a rustic wooden table with ripe bananas in the background

Banana Bread (Without Butter)

A moist and flavorful banana bread made without butter, using oil or applesauce as a healthier alternative. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this recipe is easy to make and packed with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10 slices
Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls (large and medium)
  • Whisk or electric mixer
  • Loaf pan (8x4 inch or 9x5 inch)
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooling rack

Ingredients
  

  • For the Banana Bread:
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon optional, for added flavor
  • 3 large ripe bananas mashed, about 1 cup
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar or coconut sugar for a healthier option
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil melted coconut oil, or unsweetened applesauce (butter substitute)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts pecans, or chocolate chips

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Oven : Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x4 inch or 9x5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.
  • Prepare the Dry Ingredients :
  • In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Set aside.
  • Mix the Wet Ingredients :
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, sugar, oil (or applesauce), eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
  • Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients :
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay. If using nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage.
  • Pour into the Pan :
  • Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  • Bake :
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (a few crumbs are okay, but no wet batter).
  • Cool and Serve :
  • Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness.
For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freeze slices in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months for longer storage.
Keyword Banana Bread Without Butter