Are you ready to elevate your banana bread game? This Greek Yogurt Banana Nut Bread is a delightful twist on the classic recipe, adding moisture and a tangy flavor that will keep you coming back for more. With the perfect balance of sweetness, warmth from spices, and the irresistible crunch of walnuts, this bread is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Plus, it’s simple to make, using ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s dive in!

Why This Greek Yogurt Banana Nut Bread Stands Out

What makes this Greek Yogurt Banana Nut Bread truly special? The addition of Greek yogurt not only enhances the flavor but also provides a wonderful texture. It keeps the bread moist while adding a protein boost, making it a healthier option for those who crave something sweet. The combination of ripe bananas and brown sugar adds depth to the flavor profile, while the spices elevate it to a comforting level. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up a loaf that’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!

Ingredient Notes

Sugar: 3/4 cup of granulated sugar gives a balanced sweetness, while 1/2 cup of brown sugar adds a rich, molasses-like flavor.
Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons at room temperature ensure easy blending into the batter.
Eggs: Two large eggs at room temperature help bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
Applesauce: 1/4 cup adds moisture without the extra fat, perfect for a lighter bread.
Bananas: About 1 pound of very ripe bananas (approximately 3) not only sweetens the bread but also gives it a wonderful texture.
Greek Yogurt: 1 cup of Greek yogurt (whole, 2%, or nonfat) keeps the bread moist and adds protein.
Vanilla: 1 teaspoon enhances the overall flavor profile.
Flour: 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour create the structure of the bread.
Baking Soda: 1 1/2 teaspoons provide the necessary leavening for a light loaf.
Cinnamon, Salt, Cloves, Nutmeg: These spices deepen the flavor and add warmth.
Walnuts: 1/3 cup of chopped walnuts add crunch and richness.
Nonstick Cooking Oil Spray: Ensures easy removal of the bread from the pan.

Setup & Equipment

Mixing Bowls: A large bowl for the wet ingredients and a separate bowl for the dry ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key in baking!
Loaf Pan: A standard 9×5 inch loaf pan works perfectly for this recipe.
Whisk and Spatula: For mixing and folding ingredients smoothly.
Cooling Rack: To cool the bread after baking, preventing sogginess.

Mastering Greek Yogurt Banana Nut Bread: How-To

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your loaf pan by lightly spraying it with nonstick cooking oil.

Step 2: Mix the Sugars and Butter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons of room temperature unsalted butter. Use a whisk to cream them together until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Crack in the 2 large eggs, add 1/4 cup of applesauce, 1 pound of mashed ripe bananas, 1 cup of Greek yogurt, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Stir until well combined.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, a dash of cloves, and a dash of nutmeg.

Step 5: Fold Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula just until no dry flour remains. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Add Walnuts

Fold in 1/3 cup of chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool & Serve

Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.

Warm & Cool Weather Spins

Warm Version: Serve warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for a comforting treat.
Cool Version: Pair slices with a dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh fruit for a refreshing breakfast.
Seasonal Additions: Add dried cranberries or chocolate chips for a festive twist during the holidays.
Spice Variations: Experiment with different spices like cardamom or ginger for a unique flavor profile.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

Ensure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor—brown spots are a good sign!
For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or replace them with your favorite seeds.
Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste; a little extra cinnamon never hurt anyone!
This recipe can also be adapted for mini loaf pans—just reduce the baking time accordingly.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Your Greek Yogurt Banana Nut Bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, slice the bread and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or toaster for a warm slice.

Handy Q&A

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing them to use in the batter.

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?

You can use regular yogurt, sour cream, or even buttermilk in a pinch, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend can work well, but be sure to check for a proper rise.

Is there a way to make this bread sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter bread, consider adding a bit more sugar or incorporating chocolate chips into the batter.

Bring It Home

Now that you have the perfect recipe for Greek Yogurt Banana Nut Bread, it’s time to get baking! This delightful loaf is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a fantastic way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with a smear of butter, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the sweet aroma of banana bread fill your home. Happy baking!