Greek yogurt banana bread is a protein-packed, moist loaf that delivers comfort and nutrition in every slice. By replacing oil or butter with Greek yogurt, this banana bread becomes a healthier option without losing any flavor or softness. It’s ideal for anyone seeking a high protein banana bread that’s still tender, tasty, and freezer friendly.
This one bowl banana bread recipe uses ripe bananas, whole wheat or almond flour, and no refined oil making it perfect for low sugar banana bread lovers. Whether you’re baking for kids, breakfast, or meal prep, this is a go-to recipe. Greek yogurt banana bread also adapts well to dairy free options and eggless versions.
In This Recipe
In This Recipe
Why Choose Greek Yogurt in Banana Bread?
Health Benefits of Greek Yogurt Banana Bread
Greek yogurt banana bread offers more than just good taste. It’s a smart swap that boosts protein, adds calcium, and cuts saturated fat. Greek yogurt contains probiotics and about 17 grams of protein per cup, making your banana bread healthier and more satisfying. If you’re looking for a breakfast banana loaf that keeps you full longer, this is a solid choice.
Why It Makes Moist Banana Bread Even Better
The creamy texture of Greek yogurt helps create a moist banana bread without using butter or oil. It traps moisture and creates a soft, tender crumb. Unlike some low-fat options, greek yogurt banana bread doesn’t taste dry or bland. It’s light but rich and works well even in low sugar banana bread versions.
Greek Yogurt vs. Oil or Butter
In classic recipes, oil or butter adds fat and moisture. But Greek yogurt does both, plus it improves the nutrition profile. Substituting yogurt for oil can lower calories without compromising texture. That’s why greek yogurt banana bread is so popular among those who want a lighter, high protein banana bread that still tastes like a treat.
Craving more healthy loaf ideas? Try our cottage cheese banana bread recipe protein-rich and freezer friendly.
Main Ingredients & How to Pick Them
How Many Grams of Ripe Bananas?
To get the ideal texture for greek yogurt banana bread, use 300 to 350 grams of ripe bananas, which equals about three medium bananas. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and softer your loaf will be. This is especially important if you’re aiming for a low sugar banana bread, since overripe bananas bring natural sweetness.
Choosing the Right Flour
Whole wheat flour adds a hearty texture and fiber, while almond flour banana bread offers a gluten-free alternative that’s moist and dense. Many bakers love combining the two. Both work perfectly in a 1 bowl banana bread, helping you keep cleanup simple.
Fat and Sugar Swaps
For an oil free banana bread, Greek yogurt does all the heavy lifting. It adds richness without the added fat. If you’re watching sugar intake, options like maple syrup or mashed dates can help. Combined with yogurt, these make greek yogurt banana bread both nourishing and naturally sweet.
Need more low-sugar inspiration? Visit our healthy dessert recipe collection for simple, family-friendly ideas.
PrintGreek Yogurt Banana Bread Recipe
This moist, high-protein Greek yogurt banana bread is a healthier twist on a classic loaf. Made in one bowl, it’s kid friendly, freezer friendly, and perfect for breakfast or a snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 1 loaf (4–6 servings) 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American (Healthy Twist)
Ingredients
- 300–350 g ripe bananas (about 3 medium)
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for eggless)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup maple syrup or sweetener of choice (optional)
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- ½ cup almond flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
- Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line with parchment.
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas.
- Stir in eggs, Greek yogurt, vanilla, and sweetener (if using).
- Add whole wheat flour, almond flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips or nuts if desired.
- Pour into loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.
- Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice once cooled.
Notes
Storage:
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze slices for up to 3 months.
Tips:
- Use very ripe bananas for best flavor.
- Weigh your bananas to ensure moist texture.
- Greek yogurt keeps the bread soft without extra fat.
Nutrition
- Calories: 185 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 160 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Fiber: 3.2 g
- Protein: 6.5 g
Step-by-Step Recipe (Yields 4–6 Servings)
Equipment & Prep Tips
You’ll need a standard 9×5 inch loaf pan, a mixing bowl, and a spatula or whisk. This is a true 1 bowl banana bread no mixer required. Grease your pan lightly or use parchment paper for easy removal.
Wet Ingredients
- 300–350 g ripe bananas (about 3 medium)
- 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for an eggless version)
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: ¼ cup maple syrup or honey for low sugar banana bread
Mash bananas until smooth, then stir in the eggs, yogurt, and vanilla. If using a sweetener, add it now.
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- ½ cup almond flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Add the dry mix to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix, this keeps your greek yogurt banana bread soft and tender.
Baking & Storage
Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45–55 minutes. Check with a toothpick, it should come out mostly clean. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once fully cool, your greek yogurt banana bread can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for 3 months.
Want to make it dairy-free? Use coconut yogurt or almond yogurt for easy swaps that still deliver great flavor.
Variations for Every Diet & Craving
High Protein Banana Bread with Oats
For a protein boost, add ¼ cup of rolled oats to the batter. This version turns your loaf into a filling breakfast banana loaf that’s both satisfying and freezer friendly. The oats pair well with the Greek yogurt, enhancing both texture and nutrition.
Dairy Free Options
Need to go dairy free? Substitute the Greek yogurt with unsweetened almond yogurt or coconut yogurt. These swaps still provide creaminess while making the loaf safe for dairy-sensitive eaters. You can also replace eggs with flax eggs for an eggless recipe variation of greek yogurt banana bread.
Kid Friendly Banana Bread with Chocolate Chips
Add a handful of chocolate chips or blueberries for a fun twist. This makes the loaf more appealing for kids without adding too much sugar. It’s still a great option for those looking for low sugar banana bread that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Freezer Friendly and Meal Prep Approved
Cool the bread completely before slicing. Wrap individual slices in parchment, then freeze in a zip-top bag. This makes your greek yogurt banana bread a convenient grab-and-go option that holds up well for weeks.
Try this with our protein-packed cottage cheese version for even more breakfast-ready options.
Baking Time Tips & Troubleshooting
How to Know When It’s Done
Every oven is different, but most loaves are ready after 45 to 55 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Use a toothpick to test the center if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your greek yogurt banana bread is done. Avoid opening the oven too early, as this can cause your loaf to collapse.
Common Texture Issues
If your loaf turns out dry, you may have overbaked or used too much flour. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy. A dense loaf often means the batter was overmixed. Stir until just combined to keep your greek yogurt banana bread soft and light. For overly moist bread, make sure you’re using the correct banana weight around 300 to 350 grams.
Storage & Freezing Tips
Let your bread cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze. Each piece of greek yogurt banana bread thaws quickly in the microwave or on the counter, making it perfect for busy mornings.
Try our healthy baking tips to level up your loaf game even more.
Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Yogurt Banana Bread
Does Greek yogurt make banana bread healthier?
Yes. Greek yogurt adds protein, calcium, and probiotics while reducing saturated fat. It makes greek yogurt banana bread a nutritious alternative to recipes using butter or oil.
Can Greek yogurt replace oil or butter?
Absolutely. Use ½ cup of Greek yogurt for every ½ cup of oil or butter in your recipe. It maintains moisture and adds richness with fewer calories.
How much protein is in greek yogurt banana bread?
Protein content varies by brand and serving size. On average, a slice contains 6–8 grams of protein, thanks to the yogurt and eggs.
Can I make it gluten free?
Yes, use almond flour or a 1:1 gluten-free blend. Just watch the texture and reduce baking time slightly if needed.
What’s the best sweetener for low sugar banana bread?
Mashed bananas provide natural sweetness. You can also use maple syrup, coconut sugar, or monk fruit for fewer refined carbs.
How does Greek yogurt improve banana bread?
It makes the loaf tender and moist while adding tang and richness. That’s why many bakers prefer greek yogurt banana bread for everyday baking.
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Yes, but Greek yogurt is thicker and less watery, which improves the texture. If using regular yogurt, reduce liquid slightly elsewhere in the recipe.
What’s the best substitute for Greek yogurt in banana bread?
Unsweetened almond yogurt, coconut yogurt, or sour cream work well. These maintain moisture while supporting a dairy-free or flavor-adapted version of greek yogurt banana bread.
Final Thoughts & Serving Suggestions
Topping Ideas for Every Occasion
Enjoy greek yogurt banana bread warm with a pat of almond butter, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts. For a kid-friendly twist, top with a few melted chocolate chips. It also pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a side of Greek yogurt for breakfast.
How to Serve and Store It
This loaf is versatile. Slice it thick for a breakfast banana loaf, tuck it into lunchboxes, or enjoy it as a healthy dessert. Freeze individual slices and thaw as needed greek yogurt banana bread holds its soft texture even after freezing, making it ideal for busy weeks or meal prep.
Other Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this, try our cottage cheese banana bread recipe and Cottage Cheese Queso Recipe. Both are light, wholesome, and easy to bake.
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