Are you craving a warm, moist slice of banana bread but don't have any butter on hand? Or maybe you're simply looking to cut down on your butter intake? No problem at all! This easy, delicious banana bread recipe without butter is just the answer.
It's perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, and it's so moist and flavorful, you won't even miss the butter. Plus, it's a great way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your countertop. Ready to give it a try? Let's get started.
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
Firstly, this recipe is brilliantly adaptable. It's a great option for those who are lactose intolerant, watching their cholesterol intake, or simply want a healthier version of this beloved bake. Removing butter also makes it lighter, yet the bread remains moist and flavorful, thanks to the natural sweetness and texture of ripe bananas.
Secondly, we substitute butter with healthier alternatives such as applesauce or yogurt. These ingredients not only keep the bread moist but also add an extra depth of flavor. Plus, if you're trying to reduce waste, this recipe is perfect for you. Those overripe bananas sitting on your kitchen counter are the star ingredient here. So you can enjoy a delicious, butter-free banana bread while minimizing food waste. It's a win-win situation!
Ingredients
Ripe Bananas - The more ripe, the better, as they provide natural sweetness and moisture to the banana bread. If you don't have ripe bananas, you can ripen them quickly in the oven.
Flour -You'll need all-purpose flour. It's the base for the bread structure. You can also use whole wheat flour for a healthier option or a gluten-free blend if you need it to be gluten-free.
Sugar - sugar will sweeten your bread. White granulated sugar is common, but you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor, or a sugar substitute like stevia for a lower-calorie option.
Eggs - eggs will work as the binding agent for your ingredients. If you're vegan or allergic, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons of water) as a substitute.
Applesauce - unsweetened applesauce will be used instead of butter. It's a healthier option that keeps your bread moist and tender. If you don't have applesauce, you can use a similar amount of mashed avocado or yogurt.
Tips
- Make sure your bananas are ripe enough. They should be heavily spotted or even black. The more ripe, the sweeter and more flavorful your banana bread will be.
- Don't overmix your batter. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep your banana bread tender and light.
- You can add extras like chocolate chips, walnuts, or blueberries. Just be careful not to overload the bread or it might not bake evenly.
- Check the bread for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it's done.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before removing it. This makes it easier to slice and serve.
How to Serve
Banana bread is a versatile treat that can be served in a variety of ways. It's perfect as a breakfast item, a snack, or even dessert. Its natural sweetness from ripe bananas makes it a healthier alternative to many baked goods.
- Breakfast - Warm a slice of banana bread and spread a little bit of cream cheese or peanut butter on top. It's a delicious way to start your day.
- Snack - You can enjoy a slice of banana bread with a cup of coffee or tea for a mid-afternoon snack. It's filling and satisfying.
- Dessert - Serve a slice of banana bread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a delightful dessert.
Similar Recipes

Banana Bread without Butter
Ingredients
- 3-4 ripe bananas
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
- Add in the sugar and eggs, mixing until well combined.
- Stir in the applesauce until the mixture is smooth.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing just until it's combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for about 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Nutrition
Notes
- Make sure your bananas are ripe enough. They should be heavily spotted or even black. The more ripe, the sweeter and more flavorful your banana bread will be.
- Don't overmix your batter. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep your banana bread tender and light.
- You can add extras like chocolate chips, walnuts, or blueberries. Just be careful not to overload the bread or it might not bake evenly.
- Check the bread for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it's done.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before removing it. This makes it easier to slice and serve.