There’s something irresistibly comforting about the smell of freshly baked banana bread wafting through the house, especially when it’s made without butter! Picture this: you’re sitting in your cozy kitchen, the golden brown loaf is just out of the oven, and the sweet aroma of ripe bananas fills the air. This No Butter Banana Bread with Oil is not only a delightful treat but also a healthier take on the classic recipe. Perfect for those days when the butter seems to have disappeared into thin air!
What I love most about this banana bread is its foolproof simplicity—it uses vegetable oil, which means you can easily whip it up on a whim without worrying about running to the store. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can toss in chocolate chips for a bit of indulgence or blow your guests away by turning it into a nutty delight. So, grab those ripe bananas you’ve been saving and let’s create a moist, sweet loaf that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy every slice, guilt-free!
Why is Banana Bread with Oil so special?
Deliciously moist: This no butter banana bread boasts a fluffy texture that’s soft and tender.
Guilt-free indulgence: Enjoy the sweet flavor without the extra saturated fat, perfect for health-conscious bakers.
Quick and easy: With simple steps and pantry staples, you can whip it up in no time!
Endless variations: Whether you prefer chocolate chips, nuts, or even a spicy twist with cinnamon, the options are limitless
Crowd favorite: It’s a comforting classic that’s sure to please family and friends alike at any gathering!
Banana Bread with Oil Ingredients
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For the Batter
• Ripe Bananas – Use about 345 grams (1.5 cups mashed) for natural sweetness and moisture.
• Vegetable Oil – A neutral oil like canola is perfect to keep this banana bread with oil moist.
• Large Eggs – These add richness and structure—make sure they’re fresh!
• White Granulated Sugar – Sweeten your loaf to taste; you can reduce for a less sweet treat.
• All-Purpose Flour – This provides the needed structure, but whole wheat flour is a healthful alternative!
• Vanilla Extract – Optional but recommended for that lovely flavor boost!
• Baking Soda – Ensure it’s fresh to help your bread rise beautifully.
• Baking Powder – Works alongside baking soda for a light, airy texture—check the expiry date!
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor; you can use sea salt or kosher salt as a substitute. -
For Variations
• Chocolate Chips – Stir in a cup for a deliciously sweet twist!
• Chopped Nuts – Add in a cup of walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch!
• Cinnamon – A dash can elevate the flavor profile for a spicy surprise!
How to Make No Butter Banana Bread
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Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your banana bread bakes evenly.
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Mash the bananas: In a mixing bowl, use a fork to mash about 345 grams (1.5 cups) of ripe bananas until they are smooth. This will provide the natural sweetness and moisture.
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Combine wet ingredients: Lightly beat the large eggs in a separate bowl, then add them to the mashed bananas along with the vegetable oil and white granulated sugar. Stir everything together until well combined.
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Mix dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gently incorporate this mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; this keeps your bread nice and fluffy.
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Prepare for baking: Pour the batter into a greased or non-stick 9×5 inch bread pan. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even bake, ensuring there are no lumps.
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Bake the bread: Place your filled pan in the oven and bake for 65-70 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen should smell heavenly by now!
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Cool the loaf: After baking, let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely, allowing it to firm up and be easier to slice.
Optional: Serve slices warm with a spread of cream cheese for an extra indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for No Butter Banana Bread
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Perfect Bananas: Use super ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture; the more spots they have, the better!
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix your batter just until combined to keep the banana bread wonderfully fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
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Flavor Enhancements: Think about adding a teaspoon of cinnamon for a warm spice or a handful of chocolate chips for an indulgent twist in your no butter banana bread.
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Check Freshness: Ensure your baking soda and powder are fresh; expired leavening agents can cause the bread to not rise well.
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Cooling Matters: Allow your banana bread to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes; this helps maintain its shape and texture.
Storage Tips for Banana Bread with Oil
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Room Temperature: Keep your banana bread with oil in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and flavor.
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Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the bread for up to a week. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out.
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Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the banana bread with oil in a tightly sealed container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
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Reheating: To enjoy a slice warm, gently reheat it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a toaster oven until heated through.
Make Ahead Options
These Moist No Butter Banana Bread with Oil are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can mash the ripe bananas and combine them with the other wet ingredients (vegetable oil, sugar, and eggs) up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can measure and mix the dry ingredients the day before—store them in a separate bowl until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to bake, just mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, pour into your pan, and bake as instructed. This way, you can enjoy delicious banana bread with minimal effort on those busy days!
Banana Bread with Oil Variations
Explore delightful twists on your banana bread journey! Experimenting with flavors is a fantastic way to put your personal touch on this classic recipe.
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Chocolate Chip: Stir in 1 cup of chocolate chips for an indulgent, sweet treat that melts in your mouth.
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Nutty Delight: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch and added richness in every slice.
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Cinnamon Swirl: Mix in 1-2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon to awaken warm, cozy flavors that complement the bananas beautifully.
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Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the eggs with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or flax eggs for a vegan-friendly version.
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Zesty Citrus: Incorporate the zest of 1 orange or lemon for a refreshing, bright flavor that balances the sweetness.
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Pumpkin Spice: Replace 1/2 cup of bananas with 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree and add pumpkin pie spice for a fall-inspired variation.
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Coconut Infusion: Fold in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical flair that enhances both texture and flavor.
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Savory Spin: Toss in a pinch of cayenne and black pepper for an unexpected kick that pairs intriguingly with the natural sweetness.
Unleash your creativity and let your taste buds guide you as you make this recipe truly yours!
What to Serve with No Butter Banana Bread?
The delightful aroma of freshly baked banana bread beckons for delicious accompaniments that elevate your home-cooked experience.
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Creamy Almond Butter: This nutty spread complements the sweet banana flavor while adding healthy fats for a satisfying bite.
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Greek Yogurt with Honey: A dollop of creamy yogurt adds a tangy twist that balances the sweetness and provides a refreshing contrast.
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Sliced Strawberries: Bright and juicy, these berries add a touch of summer to your banana bread moment, making each slice feel gourmet.
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Hot Chocolate: Cozy up with a mug of rich hot chocolate, whose sweetness pairs beautifully with the moist banana bread for the ultimate comfort combo.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Have a slice of banana bread warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert experience that’s simply irresistible.
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Chai Tea: The spiced flavors of chai tea create a warm hug in a mug, making every bite more soothing and fragrant.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: This fluffy topping adds a tropical flair, enhancing the banana goodness with its creamy texture and subtle sweetness.
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Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle a few on top of the warm bread for extra indulgence; it offers melty goodness that chocolate lovers will adore.
Serve any of these delightful pairings alongside your no butter banana bread, and watch how the joy of this sweet treat unfolds into a memorable meal!
No Butter Banana Bread Recipe FAQs
What kind of bananas should I use?
Absolutely, for the best flavor and moisture, use overripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. Ideally, you want about 345 grams, or 1.5 cups mashed. The riper, the better!
How should I store my No Butter Banana Bread?
To keep your banana bread moist, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, making sure to wrap it well to avoid drying out.
Can I freeze my banana bread with oil? How?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months! For best results, let the bread cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a zip-top freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then let it come to room temperature before slicing.
What if my banana bread is too dense?
If your banana bread turns out dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter. I recommend mixing just until combined to avoid this. You can also check that your baking soda and powder are fresh, as expired leavening agents can affect how well the bread rises.
Is this recipe suitable for kids or people with allergies?
Very! This no butter banana bread is great for kids. However, if you’re concerned about allergies, remember to check the labels on ingredients like the baking powder or any add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts you might use. You can always make it nut-free or dairy-free to suit specific dietary needs!
Moist Banana Bread with Oil – Your No Butter Game Changer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Mash about 345 grams (1.5 cups) of ripe bananas in a mixing bowl until smooth.
- Lightly beat the large eggs in a separate bowl, then mix them with the mashed bananas, vegetable oil, and sugar until well combined.
- In another bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix this with the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9x5 inch bread pan. Smooth the top for even baking.
- Bake for 65-70 minutes, until a toothpick in the center comes out clean.
- Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.