Description
Delicious and moist banana bread made without traditional sugar, using SPLENDA Naturals Stevia Sweetener as a healthy alternative. This recipe combines ripe bananas, buttermilk, and unsweetened applesauce to create a naturally sweet and flavorful bread perfect for a guilt-free treat.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/3 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 1/4 cups mashed bananas (about 3 medium bananas)
Dry Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Additional Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups SPLENDA Naturals Stevia Sweetener
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- Cooking spray (for greasing the pan)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Spray a 9×5 inch loaf pan thoroughly with cooking spray to prevent the bread from sticking during baking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the lightly beaten eggs, buttermilk, unsweetened applesauce, and mashed bananas. Stir together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Sift Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures even distribution of leavening agents and prevents clumps in the batter.
- Add Sweetener: Add the SPLENDA Naturals Stevia Sweetener to the banana and wet ingredient mixture. Stir thoroughly to incorporate the sweetener evenly throughout the batter.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually fold the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Fold in Pecans: Stir in the chopped pecans, dispersing them evenly throughout the batter to add a delightful crunch.
- Transfer to Pan and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the bread is fully baked.
Notes
- For best results, use ripe bananas as they provide the natural sweetness and moisture needed for the bread.
- If you prefer a nut-free version, you can omit the pecans or substitute them with other nuts or seeds.
- Ensure the baking soda is fresh for proper rising and texture.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely, which helps prevent breakage.
- Store banana bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American